Warriors optimistic on Porziņģis’ progress, but return date still unclear

Kristaps Porziņģis has increased his on‑court workload, giving the Golden State Warriors renewed confidence that his long recovery is finally trending upward. The Latvian center has rejoined the team for its current three‑game road trip and says he feels significantly better after missing six straight contests with a lingering physical issue. Despite the progress, coach Steve Kerr is refusing to rush anything, stressing that Porziņģis will be evaluated daily after completing a full practice session. 

According to ESPN, the root of the infection that has troubled him for much of the past year remains only partially understood. Since arriving from Atlanta last month, he has managed just one appearance, making his gradual improvement a welcome development for Golden State’s rotation plans. 

The same report also revealed a notable trade‑deadline subplot: the Warriors explored the possibility of acquiring Kawhi Leonard. The inquiry ultimately went nowhere, with Leonard staying in Los Angeles despite the Clippers moving James Harden and Ivica Zubac in separate deals.