- May 21, 2026
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SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.
The Golden State Warriors are actively exploring trade possibilities for center Kristaps Porzingis, who has stepped away from the team indefinitely due to ongoing health issues.
Porzingis, who signed a two-year, $40 million extension in June, notified general manager Mike Dunleavy before training camp that he needed a leave of absence. The Latvian big man has been battling symptoms linked to a POTS diagnosis following an upper respiratory virus contracted two seasons ago with the Boston Celtics. The condition causes dizziness, fatigue and brain fog.
After meeting with Dunleavy and lead medical decision-maker Rick Celebrini last Tuesday, Porzingis has not returned to the facility. The Warriors listed him as out for Wednesday's opener against the Los Angeles Lakers, citing "not with team."
His contract structure — with only $3 million guaranteed in year two — makes him trade-eligible and potentially movable. Golden State retains most of its first-round draft capital and several expiring deals, giving Dunleavy flexibility to pursue a trade.
Sources indicate Porzingis is seriously contemplating his basketball future, with retirement possible if his health does not improve.
Mickey's Angle: The Warriors built this roster expecting to trade pieces mid-season; Porzingis' situation accelerates that timeline and puts Golden State's frontcourt depth in the spotlight early.
Source: ESPN (also reported by Hoops Rumors, CBS Sports) - written by Mickey the Mouth from the original report.