Former NBA player Chandler Parsons predicts a hostile reception for Kristaps Porzingis as he faces his former team, the Dallas Mavericks, in the NBA Finals. Parsons anticipates boos from Mavericks fans directed at Porzingis.
The tension between Porzingis and his former teammates, particularly Mavericks star Luka Doncic, adds fuel to the anticipated animosity. Parsons suggests there’s genuine discontent within the team.
While the focus may also be on Kyrie Irving’s return to Boston, Parsons emphasizes the disdain towards Porzingis in Dallas. He expects Mavericks fans to voice their displeasure whenever Porzingis touches the ball.
“It will be way more violent towards Kyrie Irving in Boston, no doubt. But don’t get it twisted, they do not like Porzingis in Dallas… Luka did not like playing with him, there is an actual beef there… Every time he touches the ball he’s getting booed,” Parsons said FanDuel TV’s Run It Back.
Porzingis, now a key player for the Boston Celtics, had a solid regular season, averaging 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. His performance will be crucial in the NBA Finals.
Game 1 of the NBA Finals marks Porzingis’ first appearance since sustaining a calf injury in Game 4 of the first-round series against the Miami Heat.
As the Celtics and Mavericks prepare to face off in the Finals, all eyes will be on Porzingis. His performance on the court and the reaction from Mavericks fans will be key storylines throughout the series.
