05/01/2024, 11:11 PM

Starting sans Porzingis

Horford played 34 minutes in Game 4 with Kristaps Porzingis (calf) going down with an injury in the first half. With Porzingis sidelined Wednesday -- and likely longer -- Horford will step into the starting center role, where he's expected to remain until Porzingis returns.

04/30/2024, 9:37 PM

Likely out multiple games

Porzingis has already been ruled out for Game 5 against Miami on Wednesday due to a right soleus strain, but it now appears that he will be headed toward an extended absence. It seems unlikely that Porzingis will return to action for the remainder of Boston's first-round series and could be kept out longer if the team continues to advance in the playoffs. With the 28-year-old big man sidelined, Al Horford should slide into the starting lineup, with Luke Kornet and Xavier Tillman competing for bench minutes.

04/30/2024, 9:05 PM

Won't play Game 5

Porzingis has been diagnosed with a right soleus strain, the same injury that's kept Giannis Antetokounmpo out since April 9. With Boston holding a 3-1 lead, Al Horford will likely slide into the starting lineup in Porzingis' absence for at least the remainder of the opening-round series.