The Celtics finished at least 14 games ahead of every other team in the Eastern Conference in the regular season, propelled by a deep, talented — and healthy — roster.
That depth is now set to be tested in the NBA Playoffs.
Boston saw Kristaps Porzingis exit with a calf injury during Monday's Game 4 win over the Heat, and the center immediately hobbled down the tunnel. He was later ruled out for the remainder of the game and subsequently ruled out for Wednesday's Game 5.
The Celtics looked several steps ahead of the rest of the East during the regular season, and most teams still remaining on that side of the playoff bracket are also dealing with a notable injury or two. They might be able to afford a Porzingis absence, but for how long? In a championship-or-bust season for Boston, the former All-Star's health is suddenly a real concern.
Here's a look at Porzingis' timeline for a return from his calf strain.
MORE: Why Kristaps Porzingis is the Celtics' X factor
How long is Kristaps Porzingis out?
Porzingis is "likely out" for the Eastern Conference Semifinals and the Celtics are "hopeful" he will return for the Eastern Conference Finals, according to Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes.
Kristaps Porzingis is expected to make a return if the Celtics make the Eastern Conference Finals. @ChrisBHaynes provides an update from Game 5: pic.twitter.com/0iGOGABOMo
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 1, 2024
Calf injuries are tricky, especially when it comes to playing in critical games. Giannis Antetokounmpo has struggled to get close to a return for the Bucks since his own calf injury in early April, and Kevin Durant had a hard time returning from his calf injury during the Warriors' run to the NBA Finals in 2019.
The Celtics remain heavy favorites to win the East, but a timeline that includes several missed games figures to put Porzingis' status in serious doubt for a potential second-round series. Boston, which leads Miami 3-1 in the first round, would face the winner of the Cavaliers vs. Magic series if it advances.
Al Horford saw an uptick in minutes after Porzingis exited Game 4, and Luke Kornet could rejoin the rotation with the Celtics' center out.
Porzingis was acquired by the Celtics from the Wizards in a three-team trade that sent Marcus Smart to Memphis last June. While Boston did largely stay healthy this season, Porzingis has a lengthy injury history and missed 25 games during the regular season due to minor injuries and rest days.
MORE: Updated NBA playoff bracket, scores
Celtics playoff schedule
Here's a look at the Celtics' remaining schedule against the Heat:
| Date | Game | Opponent | Time | TV channel |
| May 1 | Game 5 | vs. Heat | 7:30 p.m. | TNT |
| May 3 | Game 6* | at Heat | TBD | TBD |
| May 5 | Game 7* | vs. Heat | TBD | TBD |
* — If necessary
The Celtics don't yet know when a potential second round series against either the Cavaliers or Magic would start, but it would begin at TD Garden.
Kristaps Porzingis stats 2023-24
| Games | 57 |
| PPG | 20.1 |
| RPG | 7.2 |
| APG | 2.0 |
| BPG | 1.9 |
| FG% | 51.6% |
| 3P% | 37.5% |