Celtics' Kristaps Porzingis Cleared for Game 5 of NBA Finals Against Mavericks

Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis is set to play in Game 5 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night, as the Celtics aim to close out the series.

"We expect to see him tonight," said coach Joe Mazzulla.

Porzingis has been sidelined for the last two games due to a dislocated tendon in his left ankle. Despite his injury, Mazzulla confirmed that Porzingis will not be under any minutes restriction.

Although Porzingis was cleared for limited action in Game 4, he remained on the bench during Boston's 122-84 loss in Dallas. Initially listed as questionable on Monday morning, he participated in an on-court workout approximately 2 1/2 hours before tipoff. The workout comprised shooting drills, light-contact post work, and lateral movement exercises.

The Celtics clarified that his tendon issue is separate from the calf strain he sustained on April 29 in the first round against Miami, which caused him to miss 10 games.

During this postseason, Porzingis has averaged 13.5 points and 5.0 rebounds over six games. His notable performances include scoring 20 points, grabbing six rebounds, and blocking three shots in Game 1 against Dallas.