Details on Kristaps Porzingis’ mystery illness and ‘energy zaps’ come to light before Game 3

There’s some more clarity on Kristaps Porzingis’ mystery illness.

ESPN NBA Insider Shams Charania said on ABC’s coverage before Knicks-Celtics Game 3 on Saturday that Porzingis is still dealing with the effects of a virus that had ailed him back in March.

Charania said the Celtics star thought he had felt he improved, but things have been up-and-down since the second round began this week.

“It’s led to him having energy zaps and stamina ebbs and flows over the last couple of months, and he felt that he had actually turned the corner right as the playoffs started in mid-April,” Charania said. “But in his own words, he had a crash right before Game 1 of this series, and he’s tried a lot of different things to try to mitigate the side effects. I’m told he’s been receiving IVs, immune boosters.

New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) and forward OG Anunoby (8) defend against Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) in the second half during game two of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

“He’s even changed up his sleep patterns to try to get more rest. He’s essentially waking up Malika [Andrews] every day, hoping and praying that he feels better.”

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Porzingis will be coming off the bench for the second straight game, the Boston Herald’s Zack Cox reported.

Al Hartford is starting in his place.

He was limited to just 26:51 across the first two games, including just 13:53 in Game 2.

Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) shoots a free throw against the New York Knicks in the second half during game two of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

“I’m just dealing with some — I don’t know how to call it, but I’m just not feeling my best,” Porzingis said after Wednesday’s Game 2 loss. “Not feeling my best at all.

“It kills me inside that it’s happening at this moment, and what I’m super appreciative is about is the support I have in the inside, also probably from the fans. But, especially here, inside the organization, and in this tough moment for me, to not be able to be with the guys, no injury or nothing, just not feeling my best and it’s tough for me, honestly, but who cares? Nobody feels sorry for us, sorry for me, and we have to keep going.”