(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
The Boston Celtics were already the team to beat in the Eastern Conference, at least on paper.
Then, by trading for Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, they became a true powerhouse.
Nonetheless, there were some who still doubted Porzingis and his ability to make an impact, as he had a long history of postseason shortcomings, injuries, and some questionable reports about his character.
That’s why Colin Cowherd and Rich Bucher wanted to give him his flowers.
Talking on The Herd, they discussed Porzingis’ impact on both ends of the floor.
Bucher claimed that Porzingis isn’t the same player who wanted to be treated like a star, adding that he’s no longer ‘punked’ or intimidated by physicality.
“He can’t be punked anymore. That was the reputation when he first came in… It’s a different Kristaps.”@RicBucher on the impact of Porzingis in 1st game back pic.twitter.com/mxkhKRPgX5
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) June 7, 2024
Bucher believes the Mavericks thought they were dealing with the same player he was when he played for them, and he’s no longer that same guy.
Truth be told, Porinzgis did have a bit of a reputation for being on the softer side of the spectrum, but that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore.
Porzingis’ talent has never been doubted.
When healthy, he can stretch the floor like the best of them with his efficient shooting, and he’s grown to become an elite defensive player as well, both on the perimeter and the restricted area.
He was a seamless fit for Joe Mazzulla’s system, and now that they’ve also learned how to win without him, having him back on the court could be the X-Factor to finally get this team over the hump.
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