The TD Garden wasn’t prepared for the upset in Game 2. The Cleveland Cavaliers torpedoed the Boston Celtics in what became a lob-sided matchup. The Celtics failed to capitalize on their elite three-point shooting, converting just 22%. Their heavy dependence on the three-ball allowed the Cavaliers to steal one game on the road.

Their three-point efficiency has dipped since the injury to star center, Kristaps Porzingis. As per the recent injury before Game 3 in Cleveland, the Unicorn remains to be out of the series. Luckily for the Shamrocks, no other player appears on their injury report. Porzingis suffers from a right soleus, an ankle injury he sustained during Game 4 against the Miami Heat in the previous series. The center hasn’t participated in the postseason since.

Initially, the reports provided a loose update on his return timeline, stating he would be evaluated after a week. However, he is showing pleasing progress according to Joe Mazzulla who said, “He’s walking a little bit better, and every day he’s in there doing whatever it takes to try to get back as fast as he can,”. 

On the other hand, the Cleveland Cavaliers could welcome some much-needed reinforcements into their lineup. Jarrett Allen, who missed the first two games with a bruised rib has been upgraded to questionable for Game 3. Reserve forward Dean Wade, who has missed the last 28 games due to personal reasons and a knee injury is also listed as questionable. He shot nearly 40% from three in the regular season, a vital weapon to possess when facing one of the most prolific three-point offenses this season.

How will the Boston Celtics cope without Kristaps Porzingis in Game 3?

The Celtics haven’t rattled without the presence of Porzingis on the floor. In 25 games in the regular season without him, the Celtics won 21 games. Additionally, their depth at the center spot allows Mazzulla to easily rotate amongst the various options. Al Horford has regularly been preferred as the starter without Porzingis.

Luka Kornet and Xavier Tillman both have received valuable minutes in the absence of the 2018 NBA All-Star center. They both played 12 and 11 minutes respectively only combining for three points in Game 2. With no other injuries to worry about, Mazzulla will likely line up with this starting lineup.

The Celtics do lack a formidable offensive threat. However, they still have ample options to compensate for the same. But the Cavaliers, with home court advantage will look to bruise the best side of the NBA in Game 3. It promises to be a tantalizing matchup. Do you think Cleveland can stun the Celtics once again? Let us know your views in the comments below.