Apr 17, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Golden State Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis (7) moves the ball against Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) during the first half in the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Golden State Warriors are trying to make it to the NBA Playoffs this season, but a lot of things will have to go right for them. One of the biggest factors will be staying healthy.
Jimmy Butler is already expected to miss half the season, while Kristaps Porzingis has yet to appear at training camp due to an undisclosed injury.
“Yeah, I mean, you know, we want him back. He's a really talented player, and so we thought he was in a pretty good place. So it's definitely concerning. And so, as I said, all we're going to do is support him, give him every bit of medical help he can get, and emotional support, and hope he is back soon." Steve Kerr said.
At this point, it is still unknown what type of health issue Porzingis is battling or how long he will be absent from the team.
“Kerr says he’s been in contact with Porzingis as he continues to recover. It remains unclear exactly what kind of health issue Porzingis is dealing with and the Warriors are unsure when he will be able to be back around the team,” The Athletic’s Nick Friedell wrote.
The Warriors and Porzingis have maintained communication, but the situation remains unclear. NBA insider Brett Siegel believes Golden State could get Porzingis back in about another month.
“I’ve been told Golden State is bracing for Porzingis to miss the start of the season…it could be something that lingers into November,” Siegel said.
This is a huge blow to the Warriors as they try to make the playoffs. For the first time in a long time, Golden State appears to be entering the season without the same pressure to make a deep playoff run, and the team seems comfortable with that approach.
Losing Porzingis to start the season will still be a significant setback, as the seven-foot center is expected to play an important role in the team's frontcourt. However, players like Al Horford will need to be ready to step up as the Warriors look to get the season started on the right foot.
