The Golden State Warriors may see Kristaps Porziņģis back on the court sooner than expected. The veteran big man has been sidelined with an illness but is reportedly making progress toward recovery ahead of their next game on Saturday. Coach Steve Kerr shared this update following the Warriors’ 113-109 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night.
Though Porziņģis has been dealing with a significant illness, Kerr expressed optimism about his return for Golden State’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers this weekend, emphasizing the recovery progress as positive.
Illness Sidelines Porziņģis During Road Trip
Since making his debut for the Warriors just last week, Porziņģis has missed several games due to the illness. He was notably absent for the Warriors’ victory over the Denver Nuggets and has not traveled with the team during their current road trip, which includes matchups against the New Orleans Pelicans and the Memphis Grizzlies. Kerr described the condition as a “bug” but reassured the team and fans that it was purely an illness unrelated to other health concerns.
“He’s just been really sick, but making some improvements, so we’ll see how he is.” ?Steve Kerr, Golden State Warriors Coach
The Warriors’ training staff has been closely monitoring Porziņģis, who remains under observation as he continues his recovery on the sidelines. Kerr indicated that the team is managing his return cautiously to ensure his health and safety.
Coach Kerr Confirms Optimism for Saturday Game
When asked about Porziņģis’ potential availability for the upcoming game against the Lakers, Kerr showed confidence in the big man’s chances to play. He made clear that the illness is isolated and not due to any long-term issues.
“Yeah, because it’s just an illness — it’s not related to anything else,”
Kerr also confirmed that there are no minutes restrictions for Draymond Green, another key Warriors player, for the Saturday game.
Implications for Golden State’s Lineup Moving Forward
Porziņģis’ return would add an important layer of depth to the Warriors’ roster, particularly during this crucial stretch of their season. His presence is expected to bolster the team’s interior defense and scoring options as Golden State navigates upcoming matchups on the road. Meanwhile, other players like De’Anthony Melton continue to elevate their performances, increasing their value as integral parts of the squad.
With the team’s current challenges, including injuries and illnesses, the return of Porziņģis could provide a much-needed boost. The Warriors remain focused on maintaining momentum despite recent setbacks, as they prepare to face strong opponents like the Lakers on the road.
“He's just been really sick, but making some improvements, so we'll see how he is.”
Here in New Orleans, Warriors coach Steve Kerr says Kristaps Porzingis has just been dealing with “just an illness” and hopes he can play on Saturday.
No minutes limit for Draymond Green. pic.twitter.com/UsgS81D5Z3
— Joseph Dycus (@joseph_dycus) February 24, 2026
