The Boston Celtics have been missing Kristaps Porzingis for the last six games, including their recent victory over the Utah Jazz. Porzingis has been struggling with what he describes as a “viral illness” that the team has not yet identified.

Porzingis last played on February 26 in a loss against the Detroit Pistons and has been listed as out due to a “non-COVID illness” ever since.

“I have been dealing with some viral illness that we haven’t been able to fully identify yet,” Porzingis posted on social media. “I am recovering and getting better. But still working my way back to full strength to help this team. Thanks for your support, and I’m hoping for a healthy return soon.”

He sat with the team during Thursday’s game against the 76ers and participated in warmups on Saturday before the Lakers game. Porzingis was marked as questionable for the Lakers match and was ultimately declared doubtful for the game against Utah, which the Celtics won 114-108.

Before the game, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla mentioned that Porzingis is “getting close” to making a comeback. He noted that Porzingis has been at the facility every day to get in some practice but hasn’t felt fully well yet.

Going into the current season, Porzingis had missed the first month after undergoing ankle surgery. Since returning to play, he has averaged 18.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in 32 games.

The Celtics are performing well, going 5-1 without Porzingis, and they currently hold a strong position on the NBA standings.