Kristaps Porzingis led the Golden State Warriors with 30 points in a 125-117 victory over the Washington Wizards on Monday, marking a key step forward for the forward. “Today, I think was a pretty big step forward for me… was having fun out there playing with the guys,” Porzingis said after the game.
He credited De’Anthony Melton for his support, noting, “Melt’s been great since day one. He’s trying to get me going, trying to find me from the first second I stepped on the court… everybody’s been super supportive.” Porzingis acknowledged room for improvement, adding, “I probably should have ended with more… so there’s still a lot of room for improvement.”
On integrating into the Warriors’ system, Porzingis expressed excitement for future lineups with Steph Curry, saying, “Oh man, this is the GOAT. To play with somebody like that is… it’s going to be unbelievable… the gravity he brings opens everything up for everybody else.”
Porzingis also praised Gui Santos, calling him “super underrated… one of the best locker room guys… always got that Brazilian good vibe about him. Warriors got a great deal with him.”
The win snapped a five-game losing streak for Golden State, who were missing Curry, Jimmy Butler, Seth Curry, and Al Horford due to injuries. Porzingis and Melton were instrumental in leading the team through the back-to-back, with Golden State opening a 17-point lead in the second quarter before Washington closed within two at halftime.
Reflecting on team chemistry and the playoff push, Porzingis highlighted the group’s cohesion: “It’s already a close group… I’m just trying to fit in and offer what I can from a basketball perspective.” He emphasized the importance of supporting one another during the season’s stretch run.
Porzingis will continue to anchor the Warriors’ offense as they head to Boston on Wednesday, while Washington, losers of 12 straight, host Detroit.
Golden State’s ability to integrate Porzingis effectively alongside their veterans, even without Curry on the floor, demonstrates the team’s resilience and depth as they aim for a favorable position in the Western Conference play-in tournament.
