RealGM

The Boston Celtics will have to attempt to close out their third consecutive series without their starting center. Kristaps Porzingis was ruled out for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals due to a strained right calf.

The Celtics lead the Indiana Pacers 3-0, which means Boston can afford to play it safe with Porzingis. He's been out since getting injured in Game 4 of the first round against the Miami Heat on April 29.

If Boston closes out Indiana in Game 4, their next game won't be until Game 1 of the NBA Finals on June 6. If the Pacers win, the series shifts back to Boston and Porzingis could play in Game 5 on Wednesday, May 29.

Via RealGM Staff Report

Save him for the Finals. He will crush the Mavericks

I made a bet with myself that if Boston sweeps Indiana, I was going to buy myself a KP jersey or something. Irony that he won't play is crazy.

The longer Porzingis is out - the longer it will take him to ramp up.

If KP is truly ready to roll, thought the Celtics should at least bring him off the bench this Pacers series rather then rest him.

You can not expect a player to play at ECF / Finals level intensity without having a ramp up or you risk re-injury.

Force him to practice non-contact on Wednesday. Make him take contact starting next Monday. Bring him off the bench for Game 1 as Sixth Man playing 15-20 minutes depending on how he does.