Kristaps Porzingis out 5-6 months after successful surgery [Video]

When the Celtics kick off their title defense this fall, they will do so without a key member of their rotation.

The team announced on Thursday that Kristaps Porzingis will be sidelined for five to six months after undergoing successful surgery to repair a torn retinaculum and a dislocated posterior tibialis tendon.

The injury forced Porzingis to miss Game 3 of the NBA Finals. Despite being available for Game 4, he did not play. In the Game 5 closeout, Porzingis played 16 minutes, finishing with five points and one rebound.

This timeline suggests Porzingis could potentially return around Christmas, but it is too early to know for certain, especially given how cautiously the Celtics manage his health.

Boston was 21-4 without Porzingis in the regular season and 10-2 in the postseason. Although Porzingis undoubtedly elevates the Celtics’ play, they have proven they can win without him. However, his lengthy recovery …