Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
Kristaps Porzingis on What He Showed Teammates in Win vs. Knicks: 'I'll Be There'
In his first official game donning Kelly green, Kristaps Porzingis generated the most points in a Boston Celtics debut, scoring 30 on 8/15 shooting, burying 5/9 threes, and making 9/10 free throws.
The former All-Star also registered eight rebounds and a game-high four blocks in the C's 108-104 win against the New York Knicks in their regular-season opener.
The seven-foot-three center was at his best in the final frame, producing 12 points, including a pair of much-needed threes for an offense that only put 26 points on the board in the fourth quarter.
Porzingis worked the pick-and-roll with Jaylen Brown, flaring out, then drilling a three from the left wing just over midway through the period, then ran the same procedure with Jayson Tatum, leading to him knocking down a crunch-time three from the right wing.
He also went 6/6 at the foul line in the final 12 minutes. He was Boston's best player on Wednesday, especially when it mattered most.
After the game, Tatum, who led all participants with 34 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, matching Julius Randle for the most in the game, dished out four assists, swiped two steals, and had a block, expressed the following about his new teammate's performance.
"He just makes us that more dynamic. Obviously, with his size, ability to shoot, (and) make plays off the dribble. They go to double me late, make the right play, (and) find the open man. Obviously, he can shoot from wherever. I mean, he's really good; he's really, really good, and we are lucky to have him."
And when Porzingis came to the podium, he said with a big smile, "That was awesome. That was awesome, I'm not gonna lie. Playing here at the Garden is always special."
The former fourth overall pick by the Knicks also conveyed the following about the significance of coming through in the clutch for his new team.
"It's important, I think. It's important to show what my mindset is in tight games like this and probably showing them that I'll be there and do what I can on both ends. And I think today was a good step for us to build that trust."
Further Reading
Jrue Holiday on Celtics' Opening Night Victory vs. Knicks: 'Winning is Our Only Option'
Here's What Stood Out in Celtics' Win vs. Knicks: Porzingis Leads Late Rally to Propel Boston
Jaylen Brown Teams with Johnny Cupcakes to Give Back to Boston
Rajon Rondo Latest Former Celtic to Spend Time with C's
Celtics Embracing Sacrifice in Championship Pursuit: 'Have to Buy into That'
Al Horford Shares Where Kristaps Porzingis Has Impressed Him Most
Under Joe Mazzulla, Celtics Rebuilding Brotherhood Between Past and Present
