The Celtics faced the Jazz at TD Garden on Monday without Kristaps Porzingis, who missed his sixth consecutive game. He has played only once in the last eight matchups, pushing through a non-COVID illness against the Pistons on February 26. Since then, the team has kept him sidelined, yet Boston has held its own, going 4-1 in his absence. Although he hasn’t played, Porzingis has stayed involved with the team.

He joined the team for practice last Tuesday, went through pregame warmups before Saturday’s showdown with the Lakers, and was on the bench supporting his teammates during Thursday’s win over Philly. At one point, it looked like he might be close to returning—the Celtics upgraded him to questionable for the Lakers game before ultimately sitting him out. By Monday, any lingering hope was gone as his status dropped back to doubtful before he was ruled out yet again.

But on Monday, Porzingis addressed his condition on X, revealing that the illness has yet to be fully identified but that he is making progress in his recovery.

“I have been dealing with some viral illness that we haven’t been able to fully identify yet,” Porzingis shared. “I am recovering and getting better. But still working my way back to full strength to help this team. Thanks for support and I’m hoping for a healthy return soon. 🙏💚”

While there is no official timeline for his return, Porzingis’ update suggests he remains optimistic about rejoining the team in the near future.

Joe Mazzulla hasn’t given much away when it comes to Porzingis’ absence, but before Monday’s game, he finally provided a small update. The Celtics head coach kept it vague but reassured fans that Porzingis is “getting close” to returning.

The 7-feet-2 center’s availability has become a growing concern. Boston has to think beyond just getting him healthy. His contract situation adds another layer to the equation, forcing the front office to weigh whether he’s worth the long-term investment or if it’s time to explore other options.

Should the Celtics trade Kristaps Porzingis?

The Celtics are facing a tough call with Porzingis. When he’s on the floor, he’s a difference-maker, but his injury history is hard to ignore. Do they trade him now while his value is high or try to lock him into a more manageable contract before he hits free agency?

With a $30.7 million cap hit next season, keeping him isn’t an easy financial decision. Boston’s already tied up in supermax deals, and future big contracts are looming. Freeing up cap space would give them more breathing room, but letting go of a player with his upside isn’t simple.

If they hold onto the 1x All-Star, they need to find a way to make it work without over-committing. A short-term deal or team-friendly extension could keep him in the mix without straining the budget. But if his injuries keep piling up, they could be stuck with a contract they regret.

A trade would solve that problem while adding assets. Packaging him in a deal—maybe for a two- or three-player return—could bring in a versatile wing with shooting ability, boosting depth and shaving millions off the cap. That move could give Boston a solid rotation piece without locking them into a long-term risk.

It all comes down to timing. The Celtics have to decide if Porzingis is part of their long-term vision or if moving him now is the smarter play. Either way, this choice could shape their future far beyond next season.