Kristaps Porziņģis says postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) sidelined his playoff form but is now managed after a symptom-free EuroBasket. Betting implication: expect him to start for Atlanta — favorable for Hawks moneyline or spread bets — but punters should be cautious on player props (points/rebounds) early in the season until consistent minutes and workload are confirmed.
Porziņģis’ health scare explained: POTS derailed a playoff performance
Kristaps Porziņģis entered last spring’s postseason a different player than the one who helped his team to a title the year before. After a dominant regular season, he struggled with energy and couldn’t sustain runs on the court, a sharp drop from his 20-point, seven-rebound regular-season form. He was later diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a condition that spiked his heart rate when standing and drained his stamina.
From mystery illness to diagnosis
Porziņģis described the condition as hitting “like a truck,” with breathing troubles and extreme fatigue. At times his heart rate would stabilize lying down but climb to around 130 beats per minute when he stood, leaving him unable to perform at his usual level during games.
What is POTS?
POTS is an autonomic disorder that makes the body struggle to regulate heart rate and blood pressure during position changes, causing dizziness, rapid heartbeat and fatigue. The result can be brief lightheadedness or prolonged energy loss, particularly when moving from lying to standing.
Who gets POTS?
POTS is relatively common among certain populations and can follow significant illness or trauma. While many diagnosed are younger women, anyone with a history of severe infections or autoimmune issues can be susceptible.
Is POTS curable?
There’s no cure, but symptoms are often manageable. Key strategies include tailored exercise programs, hydration, increased dietary salt in some cases, smaller more frequent meals, and careful rest routines. There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for POTS; management typically relies on lifestyle adjustments and individualized medical oversight.
Current outlook: cleared for action with Atlanta
Porziņģis reports he played the summer’s international tournament without issues and is expected to start for Atlanta after being acquired in the offseason. Team sources say his regimen now emphasizes higher salt intake and strict rest patterns to keep symptoms controlled.
Betting implications and early-season caution
Porziņģis’ comeback and symptom-free summer suggest he can resume a starter’s role, which supports Hawks win bets and season-outlook markets. However, bettors should be cautious on individual player props such as points, rebounds and minutes until his early-season workload stabilizes. Look for updated injury reports and opening-game minute projections before placing high-risk player-specific wagers.
A mystery illness turned the big man into a completely different player in the postseason. Here's what happened.
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