Star Center's Breathing Issues Threaten Boston's Championship Run

Celtics-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla dropped concerning news about Kristaps Porzingis' health following their 127-102 Game 5 win against the Knicks-0.html target=_blank class=infotextkey>New York Knicks. The 7-foot-3 Latvian star played only 12 minutes due to severe respiratory problems that left him "literally gasping for air," according to team sources.

Game-Time Decision Turns Sour

Despite starting the crucial playoff game, Porzingis managed just 1 point and 1 rebound before being pulled. Mazzulla revealed postgame: "We had emergency protocols ready. When your center can't draw full breaths, you can't risk long-term damage." Medical staff reportedly administered oxygen during timeouts.

Medical Team Working Around the Clock

ESPN's Shams Charania confirmed Porzingis is receiving three-phase treatment:

1. Intravenous hydration sessions
2. Specially formulated immune boosters
3. Sleep cycle adjustments using light therapy

The Celtics training staff emphasized this isn't COVID-related but declined to specify the exact illness. Team physician Dr. Brian McKeon stated: "Respiratory recovery varies. We're monitoring his blood oxygen levels hourly."

Strategic Adjustments Pay Off

With Porzingis limited, Mazzulla unleashed a small-ball lineup that shocked the Knicks:

- Derrick White's career-high 34 points
- 48% team three-point accuracy
- Forced 18 New York turnovers

"This shows our depth," Mazzulla told reporters. "But let's be clear - KP's rim protection is irreplaceable. We need him vertical for Game 6."

Historical Context Adds Pressure

Porzingis' health struggles echo concerning patterns:

• 2018: Missed playoffs with torn ACL
• 2021: Calf strain during Mavericks' playoff run
• 2023: Plantar fasciitis with Wizards

Current teammate Al Horford acknowledged: "We've got his back, but that paint presence? That's unique."

What's Next for Boston?

Three critical factors for Game 6:

1. Porzingis' lung capacity tests (scheduled Friday AM)
2. Knicks' interior scoring threats (Randle/Robinson combined 58 pts in paint last 2 games)
3. Boston's perimeter defense (allowed 42% opponent 3PT in losses)

Mazzulla remained cautiously optimistic: "Medical team says we might see dramatic improvement. Sleep deprivation was bigger factor than we initially thought."

Championship Implications

The Celtics' 65-win season now hinges on respiratory recovery. As team owner Wyc Grousbeck told NBC Sports Boston: "This isn't about basketball anymore - it's about human physiology under playoff pressure. We've got world-class experts working on solutions."

League sources confirm Boston has requested special NBA approval for hyperbaric chamber use during road games - a move that could set new precedent in playoff medical management.