Why Kristaps Porzingis Felt ‘Antsy’ Before Efficient Celtics Return

Kristaps Porzingis waited patiently, or impatiently, for the last five months after offseason surgery to return to the court for the Boston Celtics. Just shy of that five-month mark, Porzingis abruptly returned to the lineup for his season debut.

The Celtics immediately gained the benefits in their offensively-driven win over the Los Angeles Clippers. Porzingis sprinkled contributions across the board with 16 points on 50% shooting in 23 minutes to go with six rebounds, two assists, a steal and two blocks.

The long-awaited debut marked a successful one for the Celtics star.

“You’re right, it has been killing me to not be out there,” Porzingis told Abby Chin on NBC Sports Boston’s postgame coverage. “It was worth the wait to come back now and be with my guys.”

It was challenging at times for Porzingis to stay on track with rehab, though he continued to stay ahead of schedule. The trust that waiting for the proper recovery would pay dividends just barely got the Celtics big man through.

“I’m not gonna lie, I was getting more and more antsy to get out there finally,” Porzingis joked. “Here it is today.”

Porzingis said he felt solid physically outside of a few “flat tires” on dunk attempts. Now, it’s easy to see how much Porzingis elevates the Celtics again.

“What I want to bring this team is obviously just what I did last season,” Porzingis shared. “Open up the court for guys and rim protection. Those were some of the things we can get better at. Listen, no matter who’s in or out on this team, we’re an unbelievably built team.”

“Obviously, a little more rim protection and physicality on the ball,” Joe Mazzulla told reporters, per NBC Sports Boston’s postgame coverage. “It’s good to get him back.”