New Warriors Rumors on Kristaps Porzinigis, 'Extreme Level of Pessimism' of Return amid Trade Buzz

The Golden State Warriors appear to be operating as if Kristaps Porziņģis will not play for them again due to his ongoing health issues.

Per ESPN's Anthony Slater, people in the Warriors organization have expressed an "extreme level of pessimism" about Porziņģis ever suiting up for them again as they explore potential trades for the 31-year-old:

"Team sources continue to express an extreme level of pessimism that Porzingis will ever play for the Warriors again, but he could end up helping the organization in another way, because his contract, which is only guaranteed for $3 million next season, could still prove to be valuable in executing a trade."

The Warriors announced on Oct. 14 that Porziņģis would remain out indefinitely due to a "health-related matter" after a meeting with general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and vice president of player health and performance Dr. Rick Celebrini.

Porziņģis wrote on social media that same day he was still working with doctors and medical experts to "figure out how to be fully back to good health ASAP" and he was "getting better and better."

There was no indication in Porziņģis' statement about a potential return to basketball.

On Oct. 21, ESPN's Shams Charania reported the Warriors have "started exploring trade routes" for Porziņģis, who was "seriously contemplating his future in basketball" due to his health.

Porziņģis signed a two-year, $40 million deal with the Warriors during the offseason. He is making $20 million this season with a $20 million player option for 2027-28.

The option year for Porziņģis is only partially guaranteed for $3 million until July 7, 2027.

Slater noted the Warriors could look to use Porziņģis' "unwillingness to be present" at their facilities as a "a failure to render his services" in order to potentially void his contract.

Porziņģis was acquired by Golden State in a trade with the Atlanta Hawks prior to the in-season deadline last February. He appeared in 15 games for the Warriors, averaging 16.1 points and 5.3 rebounds.