Knicks fans have a complicated relationship with Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis.
On one hand, they are upset with his unfulfilled potential and not being “the guy” to bring the franchise to the next level after they drafted him in the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft. Of course, injuries and inept front office folks had a part to play in that, but after some time had passed, whenever Porzingis would come to MSG, whether as a Dallas Maverick or Washington Wizard, he was looked upon fondly by Knicks fans.
And now, as the Celtics’ season ended after a 119-81 defeat in Game 6 on Friday night, Porzingis had some interesting comments about the fans and the city.
“Honestly, the support from the Knicks’ fans was through the roof tonight and all throughout the playoffs,” Porzingis said. “Unbelievable fans, unbelievable city. There’s a side of me that’s very, very happy for them. I wish them nothing but the best. They’re class players we played against and they’ve done great things, and I wish them nothing but success.”
Porzingis finished with four points, five rebounds and one block in 11 minutes of playing time on Friday night. It was the last of a sad slate of games from Porzingis, who has been battling an illness that he has not been able to kick. It affected his play so much that Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said Porzingis couldn’t breathe during Wednesday’s Game 5 win.
The 29-year-old said he will take the offseason to get better, let his “immune system even itself out” and come back stronger for the next season. However, who he plays for next year is in question.
Although Porzingis has one more year on his contract with the Celtics, Boston could be looking to retool. Salary cap limitations and the fact that Jayson Tatum will likely not play next season could change Boston’s plans. With a title with the Celtics under his belt, Porzingis could see himself back in New York — he’s said so in the past.
But that’s speculation for another time.
Porzingis finished his second season in Boston, averaging 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.5 blocks per game across 42 contests. And while Knicks fans celebrate their first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years, Porzingis’ future is unknown. Porzingis was asked if he’s thought about how next season’s team could look very different, and he wanted to focus on tonight.
“I haven’t thought about that too much. we’ve been locked in on the playoffs,” he said. “We’ll see what the future holds. Right now, we’re just digesting this loss.”
“The support from the Knicks fans was through the roof tonight and all throughout the playoffs. Unbelievable fans, unbelievable city and there’s a side of me that’s very very happy for them”
– Kristaps Porzingis pic.twitter.com/x3zPbEVcUb
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) May 17, 2025
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