The Golden State Warriors could quickly unveil a really acquainted face in very completely different colours. When the Boston Celtics arrive in San Francisco, Kristaps Porzingis may very well be nearing his debut with Golden State following a midseason commerce that quietly reshaped the Warriors’ frontcourt.
Porzingis has not appeared in a recreation since Jan. seven as he continues working again from postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and left Achilles tendinitis. His availability stays unsure, however Warriors head coach Steve Kerr mentioned the large man’s return is getting nearer.
“Kristaps has been right here the final handful of days,” Kerr mentioned. “Practiced (Tuesday) with the workforce. Trying good. He’s feeling good. We received’t make a willpower till after (Wednesday), once we follow (Wednesday) afternoon. We’ll rise up and down the ground and scrimmage.”
Even with Porzingis restricted to simply 17 video games this season, Kerr believes the adjustment might be seamless.
“You don’t have to alter an entire lot,” Kerr mentioned. “The largest distinction that he supplies is his post-ups. He’s a reasonably good post-up participant, particularly in opposition to switches. You throw him the ball on the foul-line, the elbows, even the low block, he can rating in these spots.
“That was one of many issues we did [Wednesday], we labored on our spacing. It’s somewhat completely different than the spacing round Jimmy [Butler]. Jimmy is a man who’s going to assault the rim, get to the basket, and kick out from that space whereas Kristaps is extra of a scorer, shooter from iso spots, however comparable ideas for everyone else. We’ve acquired to know when there’s a mismatch.”
Steve Kerr mentioned the Warriors labored on their spacing round Kristaps Porzingis put up ups tonight: “It’s somewhat completely different than our spacing round Jimmy…Kristaps is extra of a scorer, shooter from iso spots.” pic.twitter.com/iVP5llTQsp
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 18, 2026
Veteran ahead Al Horford, who beforehand performed alongside Porzingis in Boston, echoed the cautious optimism whereas talking with The Mirror.
“You possibly can all the time get caught on potential,” Horford mentioned. “However, I feel that the most important factor for us is to be sure that we’re taking part in the best manner, that we’re trying to get higher because the season goes on and I imagine that we now have a fantastic alternative right here in these subsequent few days to do this.”
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