The Boston Celtics forced a Game 6 with a dominant win over the New York Knicks, but they had to do so without their starting big man for most of the game.

Porziņģis has battled an upper respiratory illness since the end of the regular season and has been ineffective for much of the postseason.

Following the season-saving win, head coach Joe Mazzulla spoke out and revealed a highly concerning update about Porzingis when asked why the big man didn't play in the second half. "He couldn't breathe. He was available if absolutely necessary," Mazzulla said.

After playing a series-high 24 minutes in Game 4, Porzingis logged just 12 minutes in Game 5. Following the game, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla clarified why Porzingis didn't play in

As a result, head coach Joe Mazzulla adjusted the Celtics' game plan, and it paid off in the 127-102 win. Players like Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser, and, most notably, center Luke Kornet.

Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla provided a key Kristaps Porzingis update after the New York Knicks' Game 5 loss.

Joe Mazzulla on going with Luke Kornet over Kristaps Porzingis: “He couldn’t breathe. He was available if absolutely necessary … that was a decision between me and

Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis did not play in the second half of Wednesday’s Game 5 win over the Knicks for a simple reason. According to his coach, he couldn’t breathe. “I mean, he couldn’t breathe.

Is Joe Mazzulla hurting the Boston Celtics? FOX Sports' national radio personality Colin Cowherd didn't hold back in his critique of the Celtics' head coach following the team's Game 4 loss to the New York Knicks.

He’s doing the best he can. If there’s anyone that can handle it, it’s him.”Source: Twitter @SouichiTerada What’s the buzz on Twitter? Bobby