Kristaps Porzingis’ time in Boston ended with more questions than answers - and unfortunately, his fresh start in Atlanta hasn’t done much to change that narrative.
Last season, Porzingis was limited to just 42 games with the Celtics, his availability hampered by postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome - a rare illness that impacted his conditioning and stamina. Boston, unable to repeat as NBA champions, made the decision to move on from the 7-foot-3 big man during the offseason. With Jayson Tatum recovering from an Achilles injury and Brad Stevens looking to manage the team’s long-term financial flexibility, Porzingis was dealt to the Hawks in a summer trade.
But so far, Atlanta hasn’t exactly been the reset Porzingis might’ve hoped for.
Through the first 27 games of the Hawks’ season, Porzingis has appeared in just 13. Once again, availability - not talent - is the issue.
The team announced recently that he’ll be sidelined for at least two more weeks as he continues to battle illness, echoing the same health concerns that derailed his stint in Boston. According to a December 15 report, the Hawks are expected to explore trade options involving Porzingis’ $30.7 million expiring contract as the February 5 trade deadline approaches.
From a front office perspective, that contract could be a useful tool. Expiring deals carry real value around the league, especially for teams looking to shed salary or pivot toward a new direction. And with Atlanta struggling to find consistency in the early part of the season, there’s reason to believe they’ll be active on the trade market.
Porzingis, when healthy, is still a matchup nightmare. He stretches the floor with his shooting, creates offense from the post, and offers rim protection on the other end.
But the keyword there is “when.” The Hawks need a dependable co-star next to Trae Young - someone who can be counted on night in and night out.
As much as Porzingis brings to the table skill-wise, his inability to stay on the floor makes it tough to build around him.
Meanwhile, Boston hasn’t exactly solved its frontcourt puzzle either. With Neemias Queta holding down the starting center role, the Celtics have cycled through backup options like Luka Garza, Xavier Tillman, and Chris Boucher - none of whom have firmly grabbed the job. But even if Porzingis were still in green, the same availability concerns would likely have left Joe Mazzulla in a similar bind.
As the trade deadline creeps closer, all eyes will be on what Atlanta decides to do. If they find the right deal, Porzingis could be on the move again - not because of what he can’t do, but because of what he hasn’t been able to do consistently: stay on the court.
And in this league, reliability is currency.