On October 14th, Kristaps Porzingis dropped an update that doctors were figuring out a healthy return ASAP. But three weeks later, the Golden State Warriors star has decided it’s time to step away.
“This season I was really looking forward to running it with this group, but as I ramped up, my body didn’t respond the way I anticipated,” he wrote in a statement. “I’m doing good, but I know what it takes, and I’m not where I want to be to perform at the level that I expect from myself. At this point, I’ve made the decision to prioritize my health and step away from the game I love.
“In this situation, I want to show the utmost respect for the Golden State Warriors and work with them to find a solution that makes sense. I’m thankful to my family and close ones for always being there. Much appreciation to all of you for the support. Onwards and upwards.”
It was in the summer when the Latvian big signed a two-year, $40 million deal. But on media day, Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy unexpectedly announced that Kristaps Porzingis was “indefinitely” out from training camp. But still expected the center to return soon. Since then, he has been away.
Recently, ESPN’s Shams Charania confirmed that KP was dealing with the autonomic disorder POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome). However, neither the Warriors nor Kristaps Porzingis has publicly confirmed the specific diagnosis for this absence. In fact, the franchise took action, as they weren’t sure why the center had chosen to stay away from the team.
ESPN this past week reported that the Warriors have stopped paying Porzingis because he is currently unable to render his services. Surprisingly, according to a report by The Athletic earlier this week, neither Porzingis nor the National Basketball Players Association has challenged the decision. Golden State is hoping that guaranteeing just $3 million of his salary for next season will appeal to teams looking to clear salary cap space.
The idea is to use that financial flexibility to attract a trade partner willing to give up an impact player in return. Whether the Warriors can find a team willing to make that deal remains to be seen.
Anthony Slater tweeted after Kristaps Porzingis announced his statement. “This doesn’t change his status/situation with the Warriors as a usable trade chip leading up to deadline, per source. He said within statement he is working with Warriors to find ‘a solution that makes sense.'”
The Golden State Warriors have explored trade possibilities with several teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Milwaukee Bucks, and New Orleans Pelicans. According to Siegel, the discussions have varied in depth, with Golden State also making brief contact with several other franchises.
“The Warriors have had conversations with the Chicago Bulls. They’ve had conversations with the Milwaukee Bucks. They’ve reached out to the New Orleans Pelicans, and there’s a bunch of other teams as well that they have held brief dialogue [with],” Siegel revealed on a recent episode of the Clutch Scoops podcast. “Would you be interested in this $20 million coming off your books? And all these teams are listening.”
Milwaukee has surfaced as a potential trade partner, with center Myles Turner reportedly part of the discussions. However, Golden State appears hesitant to give up additional roster assets to make a deal happen.
The Bulls have also drawn interest, particularly in 26-year-old big man Jalen Smith, but Chicago is not currently willing to move him.
New Orleans remains another team to watch. The Warriors have previously expressed interest in defensive standout Herb Jones and forward Trey Murphy III, making the Pelicans a potentially intriguing partner as Golden State continues to explore its options.