After one of the biggest names available this offseason, Kevin Durant, found a new home in Houston, the floodgates opened. Teams that had been eyeing the 14-time All-Star are now exploring other options.
One such option is in Boston in the form of big man Kristaps Porziņģis. The center dealt with health issues during the playoffs, which limited his ability to contribute. While that may have impacted the return the Celtics could expect in a trade, his latest health update gives Boston reason to be optimistic.
Kristaps Porziņģis Shares a Clean Bill of Health
Porziņģis was last seen in the second-round series against the New York Knicks, where he wasn’t at 100% due to illness. However, the forward shared an update on Instagram this morning that likely brought a sigh of relief to Celtics general manager Brad Stevens.
The positive health news is good not only for fans around the league but also for those back home, as Porziņģis confirmed his participation in FIBA EuroBasket 2025.
After missing last year’s Olympic qualifier due to an ankle injury, Porziņģis last suited up for the national team in 2023. He’s eager to represent Latvia this summer, and his clean bill of health could increase his trade value.
With Durant off the market, teams across the league are now eyeing Porziņģis. And while landing Durant cost Houston a steep package, Porziņģis wouldn’t cost as much and offers long-term value — he’s still only 29. While the San Antonio Spurs sat atop Durant’s reported wishlist, they passed and are now reportedly focused on acquiring the Latvian forward.
Per NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Spurs have had “exploratory talks” about a Porziņģis trade. He’s been a popular name on the market over the past week, and the Phoenix Suns have done “background work” on the Celtics forward, signaling clear interest. While Phoenix is eager to fill the gap left by Durant, the Spurs may be a better fit for both sides.
Adding Porziņģis would not only make San Antonio massive up front, but he’d also give them a solid scoring option next to Victor Wembanyama. Durant’s urgency to win another ring may have clashed with the team the Spurs are patiently building. But Porziņģis, still just 29, could help make the team competitive for years — if it works out.
While Porziņģis can dominate when healthy, the real concern is how much time he spends off the floor due to injury. And even though he won’t command a return as large as Durant did, the Spurs will still need to offer something meaningful for Boston to consider a deal.
