Kristaps Porzingis Sends Message To Celtics Fans Before Game 4

The NBA playoffs are a grind for all players involved, but this postseason has been especially challenging for Kristaps Porzingis.

Porzingis continues to work through an illness as the Celtics do battle with the Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals. The star big man was held under 15 minutes of playing time in the series’ first two games, which saw Boston blow a pair of 20-point leads in back-to-back losses at TD Garden.

The 29-year-old took a step forward Saturday afternoon when he played 19 minutes in the Celtics’ much-needed 115-93 win at Madison Square Garden. After the victory in his old stomping grounds, Porzingis took to his Instagram story to show appreciation for those who’ve expressed support this spring.

“Thankful for all the support people,” Porzingis captioned the post, coupled with a heart emoji. “Onward and upwards.”

Porzingis will try to showcase more progress Monday night when the reigning NBA champions look to even the best-of-seven set in Manhattan. Tipoff for the pivotal Game 4 between the longtime rivals is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.