No Service, No Pay: Warriors stop paying Porzingis as retirement rumors swirl

Kristaps Porzingis ’ future with the Golden State Warriors has reached a critical point, with the team reportedly withholding money from his $20 million salary while exploring ways to move him before the February 11 trade deadline. A private health issue has clouded the 31-year-old center’s return, and Golden State reportedly does not consider his absence excused and ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Wednesday that the Warriors had stopped making payments.

“The Warriors are not delivering payments to Kristaps Porzingis on his $20 million salary, ruling that he is not rendering services,” Charania wrote on X.com, formerly Twitter. After determining Porzingis was not providing services to the organization, Jake Fischer also reported that Golden State is withholding approximately $220,000 for each game Porzingis misses. Just $3 million of Porzingis ’ 2027-28 salary is guaranteed, however, rival executives reportedly believe the contract is more attractive than the player because of uncertainty over his availability and the Memphis Grizzlies have been mentioned as a possible destination. Porzingis averaged 16.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.2 blocks in 32 appearances, shooting 44.6% from the field and 33.8% from three-point range. But the Warriors must decide whether to find a trade partner, negotiate a buyout or continue withholding payments. Their recent results give the organization some breathing room on the court, but Porzingis ' absence remains a significant issue as the February 11 deadline approaches. Retirement has entered the conversation, potentially offering another route toward resolving the dispute. However, with his health situation still uncertain and no agreement reported, the former All-Star 's NBA future remains difficult to predict.

Warriors keep winning without Porzingis

Golden State overturned a 17-point deficit to beat the Phoenix Suns 116-113 on Monday, extending their winning streak to five games despite Porzingis ’ absence as the Warriors had to fight their way back after falling behind early, gradually reducing the gap before taking control in the second half. Stephen Curry led the comeback with 34 points, seven assists and six rebounds as Brandin Podziemski scored 20, whilst Charles Bassey added a career-high 19 points as the Warriors recovered after Draymond Green was ejected in the third quarter. Curry was particularly important during the closing stages, converting five free throws down the stretch to help Golden State maintain its advantage as he also produced a crucial steal from Devin Booker disrupting Phoenix 's attempt to respond on the night. Giving the Warriors an opportunity to protect their narrow lead, Bassey 's contribution provided another major boost, with the big man delivering his best scoring performance in the NBA . Podziemski also helped shoulder the offensive responsibility, ensuring Golden State had enough production beyond Curry to complete the comeback and the victory extended the Warriors ' winning streak to five games.