The Celtics escaped New Orleans with a 118-116 win over the Pelicans on Friday night thanks to Jayson Tatum’s heroics. However, the visitors were playing at a bit of a disadvantage late thanks to a crucial missed call that they had to overcome in the final 76 seconds of regulation .

The crucialness of Kristaps Porzingis’s health to the Celtics’ chances of genuinely contending cannot be overstated.

Boston is 17-12 since Dec. 1. They have a lack of wing depth. Jayson Tatum is currently working through a shooting slump. Jrue Holiday and Sam Hauser have both been dealing with injuries. As such, it's fair to say that Porzingis has reached his peak at the perfect time, as he gives Mazzulla another star talent to lean on.

Kristaps Porzingis has been earning significant praise for his recent performances. The veteran center has emerged as the Boston Celtics' best player over the past two weeks. His impact on the Celtics during their 122-100 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday,

After Kristaps Porzingis' bizarre 'meat' statement, he had to go on social media and explain himself the next day.

Kristaps Porzingis scored 26 of his season-high 34 points in the first half, and the Boston Celtics coasted to a 122-100 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night.

A mid some of their struggles this season, the Boston Celtics have fallen short in moments where they either should be heavily favored, had a large lead late, or just simply didn'

BOSTON — The Celtics righted the ship on Wednesday night with a dominant win over the undermanned Bulls. After a sluggish offensive first quarter, Boston erupted for 42 points in the second quarter to put the game away early and the offensive explosion largely came via big man Kristaps Porzingis.

Porzingis scored 34 points as the Celtics led for the final 40:40. The center tied a career high with eight 3-pointers as he nears full health.