By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Kristaps Porziņgis is beginning to look like the Unicorn again. Following the Golden State Warriors’ gritty victory over the Los Angeles Clippers at the Intuit Dome, the Latvian center reflected on his growing impact within Steve Kerr’s system.
Porzingis, who joined the Warriors via trade in early February, provided a vital spark, finishing with 20 points, five rebounds, five assists, two blocks, and a steal in 28 minutes of action. After the win in the 2026 SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament, he talked about his approach to this matchup.
“I just wanted to come in with good energy, crash the boards, be as active as I can, just give everything I could to the team. And I was able to convert some offensive rebounds into something, and do some little things well, and get us going in the game,” he opened his postgame press conference.
While Porzingis was in command for large stretches, Stephen Curry spearheaded the comeback, exploding for 27 of his game-high 35 points in the second half. Having spent years competing opposite his current teammate, the 30-year-old Liepaja native expressed relief to finally share the floor with him.
“He’s unreal. I’m happy I’m on his side now, because I used to be on the other side. There’s not much you can do when this guy gets going, and he’s hitting these wild shots. It’s truly unique,” he mentioned. “We’re going to be dangerous in any part of the game, no matter how much we are down.”
The former champion with the Boston Celtics is still working his way back to peak form following a season complicated by health management. However, his performance on Wednesday signaled a turning point. “I still have to get in better shape, a little bit lighter on my feet and everything, but last practice and today, I’m feeling decent. Something is starting to show again,” said Porziņgis.
The Warriors now head to Phoenix to face the Suns on Friday. The winner will secure the eighth seed and a date with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, presented by Google.