“We’re really looking forward to when we have everybody, but obviously we missed the big fella and what he brings,” Tatum said. “His presence on the offensive end really makes it tough for teams to switch us. When they do, we can punish them, so it was great to have him back.”

How much does KP returning to form so soon after such a long absence move the needle for Boston as they gear up to get ready for the 2025 NBA Playoffs?

Porzingis, who had missed the last eight games due to an undisclosed virus, played the entire fourth quarter and finished with 24 points on 9-for-16 shooting.