New Celtics forward Kristaps Porzingis won’t be playing for Latvia at the FIBA World Cup because of plantar fasciitis in his right foot, but he should be ready for training camp.
The Celtics said as much in a press release, saying Porzingis is beginning a rehab process that’s expected to take 4-to-6 weeks.
#NEBHInjuryReport Kristaps Porzingis has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis in his right foot. He will engage in a four-to-six-week rehab program, and is expected to be cleared for the start of training camp.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) August 16, 2023
Porzingis indicated that he is indeed disappointed to not be able to represent Latvia — which also has Thunder forward Davis Bertans on the roster — in the World Cup. But at least Boston’s biggest offseason acquisition won’t be out to the start the season. Or so it seems.
“It is difficult, I feel very responsible to myself and the supporters of the Latvian national team, but a decision has been made that I will not play in the World Cup,” Porzingis wrote in Latvian. “After several weeks of recovery and a repeat MRI examination, the plantar fasciitis of my foot still prevents me from being on the field in full readiness.
“This joint decision has been made by both the medical staff and coaching staff of the national team, as well as the Celtics team — with the advice and opinion that it is now necessary to continue the recovery process. Such a decision is not easy to make, but I promise that I will be there and support the team as much as I can.”
Porzingis, 28, came over from the Wizards in a three-team trade that also involved the Grizzlies. Last season, he averaged 23.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.5 blocks in 65 games. That was the most he played in a single year since his rookie season of 2016-17.
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!
