The Golden State Warriors are reportedly withholding payments to Kristaps Porziņģis on his $20 million salary as he faces undisclosed health issues. Porziņģis, who signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the Warriors in the summer, has yet to play for the team since his arrival.

Porziņģis has been absent from the team since late September and has publicly considered stepping away from basketball, although he has not made any formal announcements regarding his future. A spokesperson for the National Basketball Players Association declined to comment on the situation when contacted.

The player has a history of health problems, previously disclosing a diagnosis of POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), although this diagnosis has been questioned. Warriors coach Steve Kerr noted that Atlanta Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh suggested it might not be POTS, a statement Kerr later retracted.

In mid-October, Porziņģis met with general manager Mike Dunleavy and vice president of player health and performance Rick Celebrini, which the Warriors announced would lead to his being "around the team." However, his public absence continues.

Porziņģis released a statement on his health, expressing optimism about his recovery:

Hello people, I'm working with doctors and experts to figure out how to be fully back to good health asap... Health is wealth. Thank you for all the support.

Typically, NBA players are paid regardless of health status, but teams can withhold salaries if they believe there is a breach of contract. The Warriors are exploring trade options for Porziņģis, who, despite his health challenges, could serve as an expiring contract with a minimal guarantee for the next season, potentially attracting teams looking to restructure their financial commitments.