Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown will be representing the team at the 2024 NBA All-Star Game. However, there is a possibility that they may not be the only ones. Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix has reported that Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White are among the players being considered as replacements for the injured Julius Randle.
According to Mannix, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver will be considering Myles Turner, Derrick White, Trae Young, and Kristaps Porzingis to fill in for Julius Randle, who is expected to be out for the next 2-3 weeks due to a shoulder injury.
Julius Randle suffered a dislocated shoulder during a game against the Miami Heat on January 27. Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that Randle would be sidelined for a few weeks, but fortunately, the initial MRI results showed no significant damage.
There is currently no set timeline for Randle’s return. Even if he does come back before the All-Star Break, Mannix has also mentioned that these four players may be considered as replacements for Joel Embiid, who is unlikely to play due to a knee injury.
According to NBA on TNT’s Chris Haynes, Embiid has suffered an injury to his left meniscus. The Philadelphia 76ers have stated that he will be out for the weekend while a treatment plan is being finalized.
As the NBA prepares for the All-Star Game, the league will be closely monitoring the availability of players like Julius Randle and Joel Embiid, and considering potential replacements to ensure a competitive event.
EMBIID AND RANDLE’S INJURIES COULD SPELL TROUBLE FOR CELTICS
In a potential blow to the Boston Celtics, both Joel Embiid and Julius Randle may be sidelined due to their injuries. If this happens, the Celtics could find themselves facing a formidable opponent with four all-stars in 2024. One of those all-stars would be Kristaps Porzingis, who is on track to make his second appearance in the prestigious event. Additionally, Coby White would have the opportunity to make his first appearance.
The comparison between the Celtics trading for Porzingis and the Lakers trading for Pau Gasol was brought up by Jayson Tatum before the Celtics took on the Los Angeles Lakers. Tatum emphasized how Gasol played a crucial role in helping Kobe Bryant secure two championships. Similarly, Tatum believes that Porzingis could be the missing piece that the Celtics need to achieve their goals.
Porzingis has lived up to expectations since joining the Celtics. In 34 games, he has been an integral part of the team, averaging 19.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. Notably, Porzingis has been shooting an impressive 52.1% from the field and 35.8% from beyond the arc.
For the comparison to hold true, the Celtics must win a championship with Porzingis, just like the Lakers did with Gasol.
Following the Celtics’ victory over the Indiana Pacers, Porzingis reassured fans about his ankle injury. Speaking to NBC Sports Boston’s Abby Chin, Porzingis admitted that his ankle was not fully healed but expressed his gratitude for being able to suit up and play at TD Garden. He mentioned how wearing a suit or street clothes instead of playing on the court always hurts him. However, he was thrilled to be back in action.
Porzingis sustained the ankle injury during a game against the Heat on January 25. The Celtics were aware of his injury history when they acquired him, which is why they have been cautious with his playing time this season.
In summary, the Celtics are hoping that both Embiid and Randle will be available for their upcoming game. However, if they are sidelined, the Celtics could face a tough challenge against a team boasting four all-stars. Porzingis has been a valuable addition to the Celtics, showcasing his skills and contributing to the team’s success. Despite his ankle injury, Porzingis remains determined to play and help the Celtics achieve their championship aspirations.
