Golden State Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis said he expects to stay on the court for the remainder of the 2025/26 season after returning from a six-game absence caused by illness. The Latvian veteran logged 23 minutes in Saturday’s matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder, finishing with nine points, five rebounds, five assists and one block.
“I believe I will be healthy now,” Porzingis told reporters. “This time, I really feel this is it.”
Porzingis’ health concerns date back to last season with Boston, where a virus eventually led to a diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Injuries and the condition limited him to 17 games with Atlanta before he was traded to Golden State last month.
Head coach Steve Kerr unintentionally stirred confusion last week by disputing the POTS diagnosis, later calling his comment “a stupid mistake.” Porzingis said the mix-up “wasn’t ideal” but added that Kerr did not intend to create speculation about his status.
Veteran forward/center Draymond Green praised Porzingis after the loss to Oklahoma City, saying, “The game’s a lot easier when he’s on the floor.” Porzingis is expected to play Tuesday against Chicago after sitting out Monday’s defeat in Utah.
Front-office view
On 95.7 FM’s “Willard and Dibs,” Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. said the trade for Porzingis was driven by the opportunity to add a “pretty unique” two-way player. Dunleavy noted the club weighed the risks tied to Porzingis’ availability and remains confident in his ability to contribute.
Clippers lean on Isaiah Jackson
The Los Angeles Clippers have turned to newly acquired big man Isaiah Jackson after center Yanic Konan Niederhauser was ruled out for the season with a foot injury. Jackson delivered 12 points, 12 rebounds, two steals and a block in 25 minutes during Saturday’s road win in Memphis. “He plays hard and competes,” head coach Tyronn Lue said, highlighting the 24-year-old’s switchability, rebounding and rim-running.
Rookie breakthrough in Phoenix
Phoenix Suns forward Rasheer Fleming, the 31st pick in last year’s draft, recorded career highs of 16 points and 23 minutes off the bench in Sunday’s victory over Charlotte. Star guard Devin Booker called the performance “super impressive,” praising the rookie’s patience and readiness.
The Pacific Division figures to monitor Porzingis’ durability, Jackson’s expanded role and Fleming’s development as the regular season winds down.
Source: Hoops Rumors
