In Game 2 of the playoff series, Kristaps Porzingis took a hard elbow to the head, causing a scary scene as blood covered the court and fans held their breath. Despite the injury, the Boston Celtics held on for the win and now lead the series 2-0. Heading into Game 3, the main question is whether Porzingis will be able to play.
The outlook seems positive. Porzingis received stitches and was pulled from the game more as a precaution than necessity. He made it clear he has no plans to miss a playoff game unless absolutely necessary, telling reporters that a few stitches wouldn’t keep him from competing, especially in such a big moment.
But as one concern eases, another arises. Jayson Tatum has now been listed as doubtful for Game 3 due to a wrist injury. Tatum has been the centerpiece of the Celtics’ offense this season, averaging over 30 points per game. Losing him, even for a single game, would be a major blow. It would shift a heavy scoring burden onto Jaylen Brown and leave the Celtics without their main offensive leader.
To complicate things further, Jrue Holiday is also dealing with an injury—he’s listed as questionable due to a hamstring strain. Holiday has been a key defensive force and a stabilizing presence on both ends of the floor. If he’s unable to play, Derrick White would likely handle more ball-handling responsibilities, stretching Boston’s already-thin lineup even further.
With the potential absence of three core players—Porzingis, Tatum, and Holiday—the Celtics will have to lean heavily on their bench. Boston has thrived this season because of its depth, but the pressure is now on for players like Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Sam Hauser to step up. Pritchard has been contributing 16.5 points per game, and Hauser remains a reliable shooter, hitting over 41% from three during the regular season.
Should Porzingis be unable to play, Luke Kornet is expected to take over at center. However, Kornet doesn’t bring the same rim protection or shooting ability that Porzingis offers. If Tatum is out, Jaylen Brown will become the team’s primary scorer, and the Celtics’ offensive structure will have to shift accordingly.
Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic are in strong form at home, having won three straight games at the Kia Center. If Boston enters Game 3 without key players, Orlando has a real chance to take advantage and make the series more competitive.
Boston’s versatility and bench strength are among its biggest advantages, but playoff games can swing fast. If the Celtics are missing multiple stars, Orlando’s home momentum and aggressive play could change the direction of the series. The Celtics still have the edge, but they’ll need healthy stars on the court to maintain it.