This last season ended in disappointing fashion for the Boston Celtics. Entering the playoffs as the far-and-away favorite to win the East, the Celtics cruised through their opening series against the Orlando Magic before injuries ultimately derailed their season in the semi-finals versus the New York Knicks.
Even with their major stars battling serious injuries throughout the playoffs, such as Jaylen Brown's knee issues, and more notably, Jayson Tatum rupturing his right Achilles, the talk regarding the Celtics' playoff collapse was centered around Kristaps Porzingis and his "mystery illness." In the wake of his illness, Boston seemed eager to ship Porzingis this offseason, and the Hawks were quick to buy low for the versatile center.
But questions still remain regarding KP's illness last season, and many Hawks' fans are left wondering if this illness could make a return following a "laid back" offseason for the Latvian star.
Hawks fans are left wondering if this illness could reappear
After much deliberation, Porzingis was said to be dealing with a form of "post-viral syndrome," a condition where symptoms of an infection can linger for an extended period of time, even if the initial infection has already been treated. The time frame for recovery from post-viral syndrome can vary, with mild cases lasting for a week or two and extreme cases lasting for a year and even longer.
Porzingis has been adamant that this illness is now "a thing of the past," and that he's feeling "100%" for this upcoming season, leading Hawks fans to feel optimistic about their newest acquisition. But many experts point towards his increased rest this offseason as an indicator that his illness may still not be fully treated.
Porzingis has spent his 2025 offseason rehabing from his illness, one that saw him miss seven games even before the playoffs. Porzingis "feels amazing now" after a summer spent doing less intense workouts combined with prolonged resting periods to ease his fatigue. As of now, KP is on his way back home to Latvia to compete in the FIBA Eurobasket tournament, which will give Hawks fans a lot of insight into his progression this offseason.
So, what should Hawks fans expect out of Kristaps Porzingis this upcoming season?
All signs are pointing towards a fully healthy Porzingis for the 2025-26 season, complemented by a new team that caters to his play style to a tee. Porzingis is gearing up for his first game of the FIBA Eurobasket tournament on August 27th against Turkey, expressing his excitement to return to the court and assuring fans that his health is feeling great in the weeks leading up to it.
With an offseason consisting of more rest and leisure than a typical summer for Porzingis, it will be interesting to see how he bounces back from his postseason controversy. For now, KP shows that he's not concerned about this illness coming back, but with a change in his offseason routine, the extent of his recovery may be something that the Hawks' front office should keep their eye on.