The Golden State Warriors snapped a frustrating five-game losing streak on Monday night with a 125-117 victory over the Washington Wizards, and Kristaps Porzingis delivered a standout performance that provided a massive spark for the team.
Coming off the bench in just 26 minutes, Porzingis erupted for 30 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals, and three blocks. He shot 8-of-13 from the field, drew a season-high 14 free throws, and sealed the win by scoring 10 straight points late in the fourth quarter. It marked his best game as a Warrior since being acquired from the Atlanta Hawks in February, and it came amid his recovery from a mysterious illness that limited him to only 21 appearances this season.
The performance was so dominant that Porzingis joined an elite group: just one of six players this season to post 30+ points, 3+ blocks, and 14+ free throw attempts in a single game, alongside stars like Kawhi Leonard, Victor Wembanyama, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and Jalen Duren.
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In his first five games with Golden State, Porzingis is averaging 17.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 2.0 blocks per game while shooting 45.9% from the field. His scoring output ranks second only to Wilt Chamberlain among Warriors centers in their first five games with the franchise—a remarkable historical note.
Head coach Steve Kerr praised the big man’s resurgence: “He’s gotten his legs underneath him. You could see it. He just scores so easily. Really closed the game tonight with his free throws. He’s quite a talent.” Kerr also highlighted the motivational factor, noting the game was part of what he jokingly called the “Porzingis reunion tour,” with matchups against several of his former teams (Knicks, Wizards, Hawks, Celtics, Mavericks). “Players usually get up for playing against their old team, and I think that’s the case with Kristaps.”
De’Anthony Melton added 27 points, while Gui Santos chipped in 18 points and a team-high plus-20 differential. The win improved Golden State to 33-35, keeping them in ninth place in the Western Conference as they push for a play-in spot.
After the game, Porzingis was asked about the excitement of potentially teaming up with Stephen Curry, who remains sidelined with a knee injury. His response was bold and unequivocal: “Oh man, this is the GOAT. To play with somebody like that, it’s gonna be unbelievable. Obviously, from playing against him, I know what type of player he is and the gravity he brings. It just opens everything up for everybody else. So hopefully, he will be back with us soon.”
Porzingis and Curry have yet to share the floor, but Monday’s showing hinted at the explosive potential of that pairing—a frontcourt threat Golden State hasn’t had in years. When Curry returns, the Warriors could look dramatically different.
For now, this was the kind of signature night from Porzingis that reignites hope for a team fighting to stay alive in the playoff race. Next up: a tough matchup against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday.