The health issue that has Kristaps Porzingis sidelined indefinitely helps explain why Warriors so wanted to return Al Horford for his 20th NBA season, writes Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area. Horford agreed to a new one two-year contract in June, and while he can’t be counted on for huge minutes at age 40, he’s the only other center on the roster with significant experience.
“He wants to compete and he wants to be on the court.” Horford said of Porzingis. “It’s just for him to be patient at this point. Usually he’s been able to overcome things, but patience is kind of like the name of the game right now. I don’t know if we’ve seen it fully. So, I’m just hoping he can recover and be in a good place so he can roll with us.”
Poole notes that it’s possible Horford could be the opening night starter just months after meeting with his family to decide whether he should continue his NBA career. He shot 36.1% from 3-point range last season, which makes him a good coach Steve Carr a five-car offense where everyone can have space on the floor. Horford wants another season with the Warriors after last season was derailed by injuries.
“I felt like we didn’t get a chance to show what we could do as a group, as a team, so I’m intrigued by that.” he said. “Coming back here and being able to see what we can accomplish and wanting to keep competing, just keep competing and trying to compete at a high level.”
More on Warriors:
- Former Dallas guard Brandon Williams brings an element of speed that the team didn’t have before, notes Dalton Johnson of NBC Sports Bay Area. Williams, whose one-year contract is non-guaranteed, has been impressive in training camp. “He’s the fastest guy we’ve ever had here.” Kerr said. “… Brandon is probably more like a pick-and-roll, and that changes the count. It gives you more options.”
- George Nianganother undrafted free agent, was used as a small-ball center in Thursday’s scrimmage, which may be his best chance for playing time, Johnson added. The 33-year-old forward is trying to get back on his feet after missing all of last season with an injury he suffered in training camp. “I think at this point, when you’re on the court, you better be comfortable,” said Nyang. “That’s the most important thing. You need playing time, you figure out where and how you’re comfortable, and you find ways to implement things that you can do that can help your team.”
- Kerr plans to use Horford, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green about 12 to 15 minutes into Sunday’s preseason game against the Clippers, per Nick Friedel of The Athletic (Link to Twitter). Everyone else will play for about 20 minutes.