After a sensational 46-point performance from Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets are looking to keep the momentum going as they host the Boston Celtics tonight. Boston has been one of the league’s top performers so far, sitting at a second spot in the Eastern Conference, with a 26-10 record. However, Denver isn’t far behind, taking the fourth spot in the Western Conference, with a 20-14 record.

With both teams sitting near the top of their respective conferences, tonight’s matchup promises to be a thrilling contest as they aim to strengthen their positions in the standings. As we look ahead to this game, there’s one key question: Will Kristaps Porzingis be available to play for the Celtics?

When it comes to injuries, the Celtics enter the game with good news. The team is in good shape there are no reported injuries ahead of their game. Kristaps Porziņģis will be on the front court with their star players. After injuring his ankle on Christmas Day and missing 4 games due to an ankle injury, he made his return on Friday night’s game. On the other side, Denver will be missing forward Aaron Gordon due to a calf injury, which could slightly impact their depth and overall performance.

What does Kristaps Porzingis’ availability mean for the Celtics?

Kristaps Porziņģis has been a solid player for the Celtics this season, averaging 17.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His ability to space the floor with his shooting and defense in the paint is something that his team needs and his role becomes even more vital to counter a player like Nikola Jokić.

The Celtics will continue to lean on their star players, Jayson Tatum averaging 28.1 points and Jaylen Brown at 24.3 points per game. Both of them have been playing at an elite level. The Celtics are also solid with players like Derrick White, Jrue Holiday on the starting line, Payton Pritchard, and Sam Hauser on the bench.

On the other side, Denver will miss Aaron Gordon’s presence on the floor. Gordon has been an important part of the team’s defense and rebounding this season, averaging 13.7 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Without Gordon, the Nuggets will need Michael Porter Jr. and others to step up, both defensively and offensively.

Porter’s recent form with his 4.2 three-pointers per game over the last five games will be essential for Denver to keep pace with Boston’s high-scoring offense. But with Nikola Jokić in MVP form, they remain a dangerous opponent. Jokic has been playing out of his mind lately, averaging 31.5 points, 13 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game. The team’s will also benefit from the contributions of Jamal Murray

Depth charts of Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets

Boston Celtics Depth Chart:

Denver Nuggets Depth Chart:

With Kristaps Porziņģis health and Jayson-Jaylen duo in the lineup, the Celtics will have an edge in this game. But the Nuggets have Jokic in MVP form. It may seem like the Celtics are in a strong position to challenge the Nuggets, but the question is will Porzingis’ performance be enough to help the Celtics snap out of their recent loss and defeat the Nuggets? Only time will tell.