Kristaps Porzingis suits up for the Atlanta Hawks for Media Day.Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

'I Don’t Wanna Rush Anything' – Atlanta Hawks Star Gets 100% Honest on Entering His Contract Year

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Oct 15, 2025 7:30 AM ET

The 2025-26 campaign is a crucial time for Kristaps Porzingis, as it is his contract year with the Atlanta Hawks. If things go according to plan this season, the Latvian international could secure another lucrative payday next summer.

However, according to the one-time NBA champion, he isn’t thinking about his next contract right now, as he is focused on leading the Atlanta Hawks to new heights this campaign.

“I know that’s an option. I wanna see how the year goes,” Porzingis said via The Athletic. “I wanna show that I’m playing at a high level again, that I’m healthy, that I’m everything, and then that kind of stuff will take care of itself, you know? We’ll see.”

Atlanta Hawks Fans Should be Excited With Kristaps Porzingis' Latest Statement During Media Day: Jun 9, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) reacts after a play against the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter in game two of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

“I don’t wanna rush anything and say this or that, but I wanna take it one day at a time,” he added.

Atlanta Hawks News: Kristaps Porzingis opens up on playing with his new teammates

With two preseason games under his belt, Kristaps Porzingis has already shared the court with his new Atlanta Hawks teammates, and the one-time NBA All-Star is excited for what’s ahead for them this season.

Mar 30, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) passes the ball against New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. (22) during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

“I was really happy that I could end up in a place like this, playing with these young guys, playing with Trae, who’s one of the best passers in the league,” Porziņģis said. “It’s an exciting situation for me. I’m very, very happy.”

The 2025-26 campaign is pivotal for the Atlanta Hawks. Besides Porzingis, Dyson Daniels and Trae Young are also entering their contract years before hitting free agency next summer.