“He’s not here today,” Kerr said after practice. “We’ve been busy in Hawaii and Portland… I’ll call KP and check in, but there’s nothing new to report.”
As Fridell points out, Porzingis has dealt with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome over the last two seasons, yet nobody has confirmed whether his current absence ties to that condition. Warriors spokespeople have repeatedly refused to comment on his health since the Atlanta trade at last season’s deadline.
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints (Twitter video link) reports the Warriors are “bracing” for Porzingis to miss the season opener.
Below are additional observations about Golden State.
- With almost every starter and rotation player sitting out Wednesday’s preseason matchup against Portland, guard Brandon Williams delivered a standout performance. On a non‑guaranteed deal and fighting for a roster spot, he poured in 17 points on 7‑of‑11 shooting in 18 minutes, added four assists and three rebounds. The fifth‑year guard is proving he can be a quick‑fire scorer off the bench, writes Dalton Johnson of NBC Sports Bay Area, and is staking a claim not only for a roster berth but also for a regular‑rotation role this preseason. For my money, Williams could earn a permanent bench slot.
- In a deep dive for ESPN.com, Anthony Slater details how Yaxel Lendeborg emerged as a cornerstone of Golden State’s future and recounts the early impressions the rookie forward has left on teammates and coaches. “He’s going to play a ton,” Kerr said of Lendeborg. “Frankly, he deserves it. He’s already one of our best players.”
- While the Warriors are thrilled about Lendeborg’s upside, they caution against inflating rookie expectations, Slater notes. “In today’s league, social media and the microscope will demand a 20‑8‑6 line right out of the gate,” Stephen Curry warned. “His job is to block that noise. He’ll know he’s making an impact when he helps win games. Stats will follow. Our job is to protect him.”
- If you missed it, the Warriors again top Sportico’s annual ranking of the NBA’s most valuable franchises, with an estimated worth now at $14.5 billion. Will the franchise keep climbing?