The Golden State Warriors are now experiencing the highs and lows that come with Kristaps Porzingis, as Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area explains.
While Porzingis’ size and skill can make him a major impact player, his recurring injury issues continue to raise concerns about his availability.
The Latvian big man exited Friday’s game against the Detroit Pistons with back soreness and did not play in the matchup with the Atlanta Hawks.
Atlanta had traded him to Golden State last month after an underwhelming stretch, following his acquisition from the Boston Celtics last summer, during which he was limited to just 17 games due to injuries.
The latest setback occurred in the second quarter Friday after contact with Paul Reed.
“I kind of started feeling it from the first quarter,” Porzingis said. “It started to spasm up a bit. I tried to move and … while I was warm, but at one point I kind of felt a little spasm.”
This marks the fourth time in his career that Porzingis has dealt with back problems, and team officials have not provided a timeline for his return.
Since being traded on February 5, he has played in just seven of 18 games.
ICYMI: The Warriors are the latest team to sign up for the Kristaps Porzingis experience, which has been tantalizing and frustrating during most of his NBA stops. That + more from Golden State. https://t.co/ZFuinGb8dd
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 22, 2026
