The Golden State Warriors are eyeing a healthier frontcourt just in time for their showdown with the Los Angeles Lakers. Kristaps Porzingis, who missed two games due to illness, was absent during Tuesday’s 133-112 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.
Despite his absence, the Warriors' younger players stepped up to secure a comfortable victory. Head coach Steve Kerr provided an optimistic update on Porzingis’ condition before the Memphis game, stating, “He’s getting better.
He’s just been really sick, but making some improvements, so we’ll see how he is.”
🚨 Update: Kristaps Porzingis is expected to play against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, according to Coach Steve Kerr. He's been dealing with an illness but is showing signs of improvement. The Warriors are being cautious with his recovery, but Kerr is optimistic about… pic.twitter.com/87gxU89ILj
While Kerr didn’t set a firm return date, the progress is encouraging as the Warriors gear up to host the Lakers at Chase Center. They'll need Porzingis' size and rim protection against a Lakers team that relies heavily on its frontcourt.
Porzingis has played just one game for the Warriors since being traded from the Atlanta Hawks, where Golden State sent Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga in exchange for the veteran big man. The Warriors are also managing other challenges, with Draymond Green dealing with back discomfort and Stephen Curry facing injury issues. Kerr emphasized a day-to-day approach to managing veteran workloads.
Acquiring Porzingis was a strategic move by the Warriors, prioritizing size, shooting, and versatility in the frontcourt. However, they were aware of the medical uncertainties that have surrounded Porzingis in recent seasons.
He returned briefly after the All-Star break, scoring 12 points in a 17-minute stint, showcasing the potential that enticed Golden State. Despite this, Porzingis didn’t travel on the recent road trip, and while there's hope for his return, internal caution about his durability remains.
The phrase “buyer beware” has been quietly associated with the situation, yet the Warriors believe the trade can still yield significant benefits.