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NBA·INJURY·October 31, 2026 01:17 AM ET

Steve Kerr Says Kristaps Porzingis Illness Caught Warriors 'Off-Guard'

Center signed a two-year, $40M extension this summer.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read
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What happened: Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said the team was caught off-guard by the illness that has sidelined Kristaps Porzingis indefinitely since the start of training camp. Kerr noted that communication with Porzingis was positive over the summer before issues arose immediately prior to camp. Porzingis is currently designated as out and is not traveling with the team.

Why it matters: Porzingis was the Warriors' primary acquisition last season when they traded Jonathan Kuminga to the Atlanta Hawks, and Golden State committed a two-year, $40 million contract extension to keep him in the frontcourt. Without him, the 2-3 Warriors have relied on younger frontcourt options to fill interior minutes. Maintaining frontcourt stability remains vital as Golden State seeks to build momentum after back-to-back victories.

By the numbers: Porzingis averaged 16.1 points and 5.3 rebounds in 15 appearances with Golden State last season after being acquired via trade. The Warriors enter Saturday at 2-3 on the season following a 112-95 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

What to watch: The Warriors continue early regular-season play while Porzingis remains away from team facilities to focus on his health.

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NBAInjuryAtlanta HawksGolden State WarriorsJonathan KumingaKristaps Porzingis
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