The Golden State Warriors are “extremely pessimistic” that Kristaps Porzingis will play for the team again, with the center’s indefinite absence leaving the franchise facing major questions about its frontcourt and the future of his contract, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
In a report published Wednesday, October 28, Slater wrote that Golden State’s front office has instructed head coach Steve Kerr to prepare the team as if Porzingis were not a factor after the 7-foot-2 center stepped away from the team on the eve of training camp to address a private health matter.
General manager Mike Dunleavy and lead medical decision-maker Rick Celebrini are the only members of the Warriors’ staff who have been communicating with Porzingis during his absence, according to Slater. The team initially expected the center to return to the facility and spend time with his teammates and medical staff, but he has not returned. Golden State subsequently changed his official status to “not with team.”
The situation has become particularly difficult for a team that entered the season counting on Porzingis to address its lack of size. Golden State began the season 1-3, and Draymond Green has been forced to take on center responsibilities despite the physical toll of the role at age 36. Al Horford, in his 20th NBA season, has also been limited to around 20 minutes per game and cannot play on consecutive nights.
Porzingis signed a two-year, $40 million extension in June after averaging 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 15 games for Golden State following his arrival from Atlanta. However, only $3 million of his $20 million salary for next season is guaranteed, giving the Warriors some financial protection.
Golden State has already explored trade possibilities, but Slater reported that the market is traditionally quiet in late October, with teams often waiting until January or February before making significant roster decisions. The Warriors are prepared to remain patient while assessing whether a suitable opportunity emerges.
The contract could still help Golden State acquire another rotation player, even if Porzingis does not return to the court. Because only $3 million of his salary for next season is guaranteed, the deal could appeal to a team seeking financial flexibility. However, voiding the contract over his absence would be complicated and would not automatically give the Warriors a major new roster-building tool.
For now, Golden State must find ways to compensate for Porzingis’ absence. Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg has provided a boost, recording 31 points, 12 rebounds and six assists in Monday’s win over Denver, while two-way center Graham Ike has started two of the team’s first four games. Kerr also praised the energy and ability of the team’s young big men.
Porzingis, who averaged 16.1 points and 5.3 rebounds in 15 appearances for Golden State last season, has not played in 2026-27. The Warriors’ immediate priority is to manage without him while deciding how to handle a contract that could become more valuable as the trade market develops.
