Porzingis Weighs Future With Warriors Ahead of Free Agency
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Kristaps Porzingis said he has not decided whether to re-sign with the Golden State Warriors as he prepares for unrestricted free agency following the team’s play-in defeat Friday in Phoenix.
The 28-year-old center, acquired from Boston at the February trade deadline, told reporters he will “take a step back” this offseason after an injury-marred year limited him to 15 of a possible 31 regular-season games with Golden State. A lingering case of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) has been the primary concern.
“I do love my time here, honestly,” Porzingis said when asked about a potential return. “If I had a good year, I think I’d have a more clear picture of what I want to do.”
Porzingis averaged 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists for the Warriors, occasionally flashing high-end production. In Wednesday’s play-in win over the Clippers, he posted 20 points, five rebounds and five assists in 28 minutes alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
Golden State would likely need Porzingis to accept a significant pay cut to stay. He earned $30.7 million this season, the final year of an extension signed with Boston. The Warriors are juggling other financial decisions, including a possible extension for Curry and evaluating major trade options involving Green or Jimmy Butler in pursuit of another superstar.
Despite Porzingis’ limited availability, head coach Steve Kerr said the big man “changed our team” with his floor spacing and shot-blocking. Porzingis battled ankle soreness in Friday’s season-ending loss.
The Latvian star said he will survey “the whole picture” before choosing his next destination once free agency opens July 1.
Source: Hoops Rumors
