Warriors Share Kristaps Porzingis Update Vs. Kings on Friday

Golden State announced ahead of the bout that Porzingis has been cleared to play. Head coach Steve Kerr told reporters that the Latvian big man will be part of the starting lineup. He will be joined by Curry, Draymond Green , Brandin Podziemski and Gui Santos.

Curry will also play tonight after sitting out the Lakers game due to injury management. This will be the first time that the four-time champion will be in the starting lineup since returning from a knee injury. Kerr also said that the two-time MVP's minutes will be increased against the Kings.

Porzingis has dealt with an illness this season, limiting his time on the floor to just 30 games, including 13 games for the Warriors. However, the big man has been productive when he's healthy, averaging 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists.

The Warriors also want Porzingis to spend more time playing with Curry. So far, they've played only eight minutes together. The two star players have had troubles with injuries, preventing them from developing chemistry.

The Warriors are 10th in the Western Conference and will need to play two games of the play-in tournament to qualify for the playoffs. The team's first matchup in the tourney will be against the Portland Trail Blazers. If they win, they will face whichever team loses between the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Clippers.

If the team wins both games, they will secure the No. 8 spot in the Western Conference standings. They could face the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the opening round.

The Thunder is not an easy opponent for the Warriors. The two teams have played four games in the regular season, and OKC swept the Dubs in their season series.