SAN FRANCISCO — Golden State Warriors forward/center Kristaps Porzingis will remain out indefinitely because of a health-related matter, the team announced in a statement. Porzingis has missed training camp and Golden State's first five preseason games, and the Warriors said there is no timeline for a return to practice or game action.
Porzingis returned to the team's practice facility and met with general manager Mike Dunleavy and Dr. Rick Celebrini, the vice president of player health and performance. The Warriors said what was discussed will stay private. "Hello people, I'm working with doctors and experts to figure out how to be fully back to good health asap," Porzingis said. "Honestly, I'm getting better and better. I just have to stay patient, and I believe I'll be feeling great again soon."
Porzingis added, "It has definitely been frustrating dealing with some health stuff that you can't exactly pinpoint, on top of injuries throughout my career, so it has added up for sure, but we will get through it. Health is wealth." He also said, "I appreciate all the internet doctors trying to diagnose and help, but I'm in the best hands. So everyone can relax now and I don't have hiv or aids." The Warriors said Porzingis will stay around the team while he is out and will provide an update on his playing status when one is available and appropriate.
Head coach Steve Kerr said he is leaning toward a smaller starting lineup while Porzingis is out that would include Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos, Yaxel Lendeborg and Draymond Green. Golden State re-signed Porzingis to a two-year, $40 million contract this offseason and can trade him at any time, with only $3 million of his $20 million salary for next season guaranteed. Porzingis played in just 34 games last season.