The Golden State Warriors have done their “due diligence” in analyzing Kristaps Porzingis’ health and expect the center to be a key part of the team’s rotation, according to Steve Kerr.
“I don’t think we would have made the deal if we didn’t think he could be healthy and consistent in the lineup,” Kerr said. “That’s the plan.”
Porzingis has played just 17 games this season due to a combination of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and Achilles tendonitis.
“If he’s right, he’s a great player,” Kerr added. “You’re looking at a guy who really fits what we need: size, spacing, shooting, rim protection. Every team needs that, but we’ve always needed that since we’ve been here. We’ve never had a player like him.”
According to sources, Porzingis was initially part of a potential three-team deal that would see Anthony Davis go to the Hawks and Jonathan Kuminga to the Mavs. The trade did not materialize after Davis’ hand injury.
Kerr added that he expects the Warriors to still compete this season, though he admitted the ceiling is lower without Jimmy Butler.
“We still have a good team,” Kerr said. “A very good team. Even without Jimmy we can make a play-off run. The ceiling is definitely lower. I’m not going to sit here and lie.”
#Steve #Kerr #Warriors #conducted #due #diligence #Kristaps #Porzingis #health