Kristaps Porzingis was traded from the Boston Celtics to the Atlanta Hawks last month following a salary dump intended to ease luxury tax pressures. The trade comes after Porzingis joined Boston in June 2023 via a three-team deal including the Washington Wizards and Memphis Grizzlies. This transition marks a new chapter for Porzingis as he prepares to contribute to the Hawks in the upcoming NBA season.
Challenges During Porzingis’ Time with Boston Celtics
Porzingis played a pivotal role in helping the Celtics reach the 2024 NBA Finals; however, his impact was limited due to a leg injury sustained during the playoffs. Over the 2024-25 season, he appeared in only 42 games as he faced multiple setbacks. These included an ankle surgery needed after the Finals injury and an illness toward the end of the season, both of which affected his availability for Boston.
Porzingis Reflects on Past Season and Looks Forward
Speaking with Lauren Williams of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Porzingis shared his thoughts on the Celtics’ season and the changes ahead.
Our season (with the Celtics) didn’t end last year the way we wanted to,
Porzingis said.
But this is how it goes, you know. And obviously, we expected that there were going to be changes in my whole team…And also (I) jumped in the middle of the season, and it’s obviously tough, and just having this time off and being able to recharge a bit and get ready for a big summer, and then going into next year, it’s, honestly, it’s the perfect scenario, the perfect scenario. And I’m super, super excited about what’s coming.
—Kristaps Porzingis
Statistical Overview of Porzingis’ Last Season
Despite the challenges, Porzingis maintained solid performance numbers, averaging 19.5 points per game and shooting 41.2 percent from beyond the three-point line during the season. These stats highlight his scoring ability and value to teams looking to boost their offensive options.
Outlook as Porzingis Joins the Atlanta Hawks
With the trade finalized, Porzingis is eager to make a significant contribution to the Hawks’ roster and style of play.
I think I’ll fit right in here and add more diversity, maybe even more offense,
Porzingis expressed.
And, yeah, I think there’s going to be more layers to this offense that’s already pretty powerful. But yeah, I think we can really be a force offensively.
—Kristaps Porzingis
As the Hawks prepare for the upcoming season, Porzingis’ presence is expected to enhance their scoring versatility. The trade has provided him with additional time to recover and prepare, making this period an ideal setup for his success with Atlanta. The coming season will test how effectively he can integrate with the Hawks and influence their performance on the court.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Kristaps Porzingis’s illness?
A. During most of the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Boston Celtics were without an important player for their offense. Kristaps Porziņģis, a key big man, was greatly affected by post-viral syndrome, limiting his performance.
Q. Why is Kristaps Porzingis called the unicorn?
A. Known as “The Unicorn” because he can make impressive plays and shoot from long distance, he stands at 7 feet 2 inches tall. He plays both power forward and center positions.