Sat May 10 19:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Celtics Face Must-Win Game 3 Against Knicks, Porzingis’ Illness a Major Concern
**NEW YORK, NY** – The Boston Celtics are facing a critical Game 3 against the New York Knicks, down 0-2 in their Eastern Conference Semifinals series after losing both home games. The team’s hopes rest heavily on the recovery of center Kristaps Porzingis, who has been battling a mysterious illness impacting his fatigue and breathing.
Coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed that the team is aware of the illness and is providing Porzingis with treatment, hoping a two-day break will help him regain his strength. Porzingis’ limited playing time (27 minutes total) and low scoring output (8 points) in the first two games have significantly hampered the Celtics. His absence has been keenly felt on both ends of the court.
Despite the daunting 0-2 deficit, the Celtics remain optimistic. They point to their substantial leads in both games, believing that addressing key mistakes could turn the series around. A Game 3 loss, however, would put them in a precarious 0-3 hole, making a comeback extremely difficult. The game represents a crucial test of the Celtics’ resilience and determination to defend their NBA championship.
First Piper 