The Golden State Warriors are a team that people will be watching, especially because this might not be the strongest roster the organization has put together. The Warriors are known for making the NBA Playoffs and being favorites to win a championship. However, those days seem to be in the past.
Over the summer, the team tried to make moves to become a legitimate contender again. One of the moves they made was signing Kristaps Porzingis.
“The Golden State Warriors are bringing back veteran center Kristaps Porzingis on a two-year, $40 million contract with a player option on the second season, agent Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management told ESPN's Shams Charania. Porzingis is extending his current contract, allowing him to negotiate and agree with the Warriors before hitting the open market on Tuesday afternoon,” ESPN’s Anthony Slater wrote.
However, shortly before training camp, it was announced that Porzingis was dealing with a health issue. The center met with the Warriors' medical team, and the organization provided little information about his condition afterward.
“The specific contents of that meeting will remain private. Porzingis will remain out indefinitely due to the same health-related matter but will be around the team. An update on his status, including the potential resumption of practice, playing status, or timeline, will be provided when available and appropriate," the franchise stated in a press release.
On Wednesday, it was reported that Porzingis has an autoimmune condition. ESPN’s Shams Charania also reported that Golden State is now exploring potential trade options.
“Golden State has started exploring trade routes for Kristaps Porzingis, who is now seriously contemplating his future in basketball as he deals with recurring symptoms from the autoimmune condition termed as POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), sources tell ESPN,” Charania posted.
This is terrible news for the veteran center, who has struggled with health issues throughout his career. For the Warriors, the situation could already become a major regret, as they may need to find another starting center.
Porzingis has $6 million guaranteed on his contract. Golden State now faces a difficult decision, with its season already facing uncertainty before it even begins. With the Warriors hours away from tipping off against the Los Angeles Lakers, the organization could already be regretting the signing.
