The Golden State Warriors have veteran center Kristaps Porzingis listed among their top trade assets for the 2026-27 NBA season. This comes after the team ended its previous campaign with a 115-110 loss to the LA Clippers on April 13, 2026, part of a tough recent stretch where they lost four of their last five games.
Why is Kristaps Porzingis a trade asset?
Analyst Mona recently ranked Porzingis as the Warriors' third-best trade piece. She noted a 31-year-old who played just 15 games for his new team cannot carry a trade alone. The list also included Golden State's own first-round draft picks and young guard Brandin Podziemski. Porzingis arrived in a mid-season deal that sent Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga to the Atlanta Hawks.
He appeared in 15 games down the stretch, averaging 16.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per contest. His field goal percentage was 43.3% while playing 23.7 minutes per game. Porzingis provided a scoring boost but his well-documented injury history remains a factor for any team considering a deal.
What is Porzingis's contract situation with the Warriors?
Over the offseason, Porzingis signed a new two-year contract with Golden State. He will make $20 million for the upcoming 2026-27 season. The deal includes a $20 million player option for the 2027 offseason. If Porzingis declines that option, he would become an unrestricted free agent for the second summer in a row.
This contract structure gives both the player and the team flexibility. It also impacts his trade value, as acquiring teams would need to consider his future salary. You can track the full financial implications for the Warriors on our dedicated roster page.
How did Porzingis perform after joining Golden State?
The 2015 No. 4 overall pick started his career with the New York Knicks. He has since played for Dallas, Washington, Boston, and Atlanta before landing with the Warriors. His brief 15-game sample in San Francisco showed he can still produce when on the court.
Along with his 16.1 points, he dished out 2.3 assists per game. Coach Steve Kerr will hope for a full, healthy season from the big man if he remains on the roster. The team's 1W-4L form to end last season highlights a need for consistent production, especially in the frontcourt.
What comes next for the Warriors?
The Warriors are not expected to enter the new season with a completely new roster. Porzingis is slated to be on board, aiming for his first full campaign with the franchise. However, his status as a prime trade chip means his future is uncertain.
Golden State's strategy will likely involve evaluating the trade market while also preparing Porzingis for a significant role. The front office must balance immediate competitiveness with long-term asset management. Their recent results, including that April loss to the Clippers, put pressure on decisions that can improve the team's standings position.
Porzingis's health and performance in the early part of the season will dictate his value. Whether he finishes the year in a Warriors uniform or is moved for other pieces is one of the key storylines to watch.
