The Golden State Warriors are expressing confidence that newly acquired center Kristaps Porzingis is poised to return to action imminently, despite a history of injuries that has limited him this season. Coach Steve Kerr and star Stephen Curry have both highlighted the potential impact of Porzingis’ size, shooting, and rim protection on a team seeking to bolster its frontcourt for a playoff push.
Porzingis has been sidelined for much of the current NBA season due to postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and left Achilles tendinitis, playing only 17 games. However, the Warriors’ medical staff, led by Rick Celebrini, conducted thorough evaluations before approving the trade, assuring the team that Porzingis is on the verge of being game-ready. Kerr emphasized that the acquisition was made with the expectation of Porzingis contributing consistently, stating, “I don’t think we would’ve made the trade if we didn’t think he could be healthy and consistent in terms of being in the lineup.”
The trade that brought Porzingis to Golden State was finalized just before the February 5 deadline, with the Warriors sending young forward Jonathan Kuminga and guard Buddy Hield to the Atlanta Hawks. No draft picks were involved in the two-team deal, which came together after earlier, more complex multi-team proposals involving Anthony Davis fell through. Porzingis, who has an expiring $30.7 million contract, had been a target for the Warriors for months, reflecting their long-standing need for a player of his skill set.
Stephen Curry welcomed the addition, noting Porzingis’ championship experience with the Boston Celtics and his fit alongside veterans like Al Horford. “I’m just hoping that he’s healthy, first and foremost so that he can do what he can do on the floor,” Curry said. The Warriors, currently 28-24 and eighth in the Western Conference, are looking to stabilize their roster after the recent ACL injury to Jimmy Butler, which has lowered their ceiling but not eliminated playoff aspirations.
Kerr acknowledged that Porzingis is unlikely to be cleared for the immediate next game against the Los Angeles Lakers but expects him to join the team in Los Angeles and resume play shortly thereafter. The coach praised Porzingis’ abilities, saying, “When he’s right, he’s a helluva player… We’ve never had a player quite like him.” This sentiment underscores the strategic move to address a perennial weakness in size and spacing.
The pursuit of Porzingis came after the Warriors’ failed attempt to trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, forcing a pivot to a more attainable target. Insider reports, including from Shams Charania on Threads, confirm that Porzingis was a priority for Golden State in the lead-up to the deadline, with the team valuing his expiring contract and immediate fit. The trade represents a calculated risk, banking on Porzingis’ health to provide a boost in the second half of the season.
Looking ahead, Porzingis’ integration into the Warriors’ system will be crucial as they aim to secure a playoff spot in a competitive Western Conference. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim could complement Curry’s shooting and Draymond Green’s playmaking, potentially elevating the team’s performance. However, his injury history remains a concern, and his durability will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
In conclusion, the Warriors’ confidence in Porzingis signals a proactive approach to addressing roster needs, with hopes that his return can help navigate the challenges posed by injuries and maintain competitiveness. As the team prepares for the final stretch of the season, all eyes will be on Porzingis’ debut and his impact on Golden State’s fortunes.
