Steve Kerr on Kristaps Porzingis: 'We were definitely caught off guard'

The Golden State Warriors extended veteran center Kristaps Porzingis' contract for two more years, worth $40 million, this past summer. The Latvian was anticipated to be fully healthy to kick off the new season, but Porzingis informed the team about an illness before training camp began. Now, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr shared his perspective on the situation, admitting that they were "caught off guard" by Porzingis' health concerns.

The coach explained that they had been in communication with the player throughout the summer, and everything appeared to be on track until training camp commenced. Kerr noted that they had to proceed with their plans, as they were preoccupied with other matters. In regards to the team's current predicament, with key players Moses Moody and Jimmy Butler III sidelined, Porzingis could prove to be a valuable asset alongside Stephen Curry and Yaxel Lendeborg.

During the previous season, Porzingis contributed 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.1 blocks, and 0.6 steals in 15 games with the Warriors. However, there is no set timeline for his return to the team.