Kristaps Porzingis was sidelined for Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks due to a rare tendon injury in his lower left leg sustained in the previous game. The Celtics made the announcement just before the game, with coach Joe Mazzulla indicating that Porzingis' status for Game 4 was uncertain.
Porzingis, who had recently returned after missing 10 playoff games due to a right calf strain, played a crucial role in helping the Celtics secure a 2-0 series lead against his former team. However, he felt discomfort in his leg after colliding with Dallas center Dereck Lively II in the previous game, leading to his early exit in the third quarter.
