The Celtics are gearing up for their first matchup of the season against the Hawks tonight, but one familiar face won’t be on the court. Kristaps Porzingis, who landed in Atlanta as part of a three-team deal last summer, remains sidelined with left Achilles tendinitis. This will be his fourth straight game out of action, adding to a frustrating season that’s seen him suit up for just 17 of the Hawks’ first 43 games.
When he’s been available, Porzingis has looked sharp-averaging 17.1 points, 5.1 boards, and 1.3 blocks in just over 24 minutes a night. But availability has been the issue.
Between early-season illness and now this Achilles issue, the big man’s absence has been a key factor in Atlanta’s underwhelming start. A team that entered the season with expectations of being a top-tier Eastern Conference contender finds itself hovering in play-in territory at 20-23.
Jaylen Brown, who spent two seasons alongside Porzingis in Boston, reflected on their time together and what it’s been like seeing his former teammate settle into Atlanta-Brown’s hometown.
“He’s in my hometown,” Brown said during Saturday morning’s shootaround. “I remember we did a segment when he was in Boston and we came to Atlanta.
I took him to American Deli and he went up to my high school as well. So I feel like that was kind of me helping him get introduced to the city.”
Brown added that while they haven’t kept in close contact recently, he hopes Porzingis is enjoying what Atlanta has to offer. “Atlanta has many things to offer historically, so hopefully he’s having a great time. I haven’t communicated with him as much, but it’ll be great to see him tonight if he’s here.”
Anfernee Simons: Too Valuable to Trade?
One of the more intriguing storylines in Boston right now revolves around Anfernee Simons. When the Celtics acquired him from Portland last summer, it looked like a short-term rental-an expiring contract that could be flipped at the deadline. But Simons has made that decision a lot tougher than expected.
He’s been electric off the bench, giving Boston a serious scoring punch in the second unit. His 39-point explosion in Thursday’s win over Miami was a reminder of just how dangerous he can be when he’s in rhythm. And as the Celtics continue to look like a legitimate championship threat, Simons’ contributions have been a big part of that rise.
His $27.8 million expiring contract makes him a logical trade chip, especially if Boston wants to shore up its frontcourt depth. But moving him now would mean losing a player who’s become a real asset in their rotation. Team president Brad Stevens has a tough call ahead: cash in Simons’ value to address a need-or ride with a player who’s helping them win right now.
Frontcourt Focus: Gafford and Jackson Jr. Rumors
Boston’s rumored interest in adding another big man continues to swirl, with Daniel Gafford reportedly on their radar. A potential deal with Dallas is something the front office is at least exploring, though the specifics remain unclear. Gafford’s rim protection and energy could make him a valuable addition, especially as the Celtics look to bolster their interior defense for a deep playoff run.
On the flip side, there’s some skepticism about whether Boston will make a serious push for Jaren Jackson Jr. While Jackson is an elite defender and floor spacer, his contract-locked in for four more years-could be tough to absorb given the Celtics’ current financial commitments. It’s not just about talent; it’s about fit, flexibility, and long-term planning.
Tatum’s Recovery: Quiet Progress Behind the Scenes
While the trade rumors swirl and the games keep coming, there’s also a quieter storyline unfolding: Jayson Tatum’s recovery. The All-Star forward is still working his way back from the Achilles tear he suffered last May. There hasn’t been an official update on his status, but behind the scenes, the progress is real.
Rookie Jordan Walsh offered a glimpse into Tatum’s rehab grind: “He looks better than he did when he started. So, he’s making progress.
He’s in the gym all day, every day. He’s definitely making progress.”
That’s encouraging news for Celtics fans. Tatum remains the cornerstone of this team, and while Boston has found ways to win without him, getting him back to full strength could be the final piece in a championship puzzle.
Bottom Line
The Celtics are in an interesting spot. They’re winning games, getting strong contributions from unexpected places, and still have room to improve-both on the court and via trade.
With Porzingis watching from the sidelines tonight, and Simons making a strong case to stick around, Boston’s front office has some big decisions to make. But for now, the focus is on the Hawks-and keeping the momentum rolling.