Porzingis: I've always been a huge fan of Curry. My goal is to return in the first game after the All-Star Weekend.

On February 8th Beijing time, before the Lakers vs. Warriors game, Warriors newcomer Porzingis gave an interview discussing his feelings about the trade, his recovery progress, and his views on the Warriors. Below is the full interview transcript —

Reporter: Was this trade a complete surprise to you? How did you find out about it?

Porzingis: Exactly, I had no idea at all. It was very unexpected, and it happened late at night just before I was about to sleep. It was really sudden.

Reporter: What was your initial reaction?

Porzingis: As always, I was very excited. Especially after knowing which team I was going to. Plus, Horford is here too. I’ve always known the fan base here is amazing; from the outside, it looks very strong. I think this will be a very exciting opportunity.

Reporter: How do you feel physically right now? How was your training this morning?

Porzingis: Training went well, I’m gradually getting back into rhythm. Once I officially play, I want to be ready to perform immediately—that’s my goal. I feel good now, taking it step by step.

Reporter: How do you think your skills—shooting, passing, cutting—will fit into the team’s system?

Porzingis: I believe it will be very natural. I’ve always said I’m a player who can adapt to any offensive system. So I expect the integration to go smoothly. Of course, I’ll need some time to get used to my teammates and for them to get familiar with my style and preferred spots to receive the ball, but these players are very experienced and have played at a high level for many years. I’m confident the adjustment will be easy, and I can learn a lot from them.

Reporter: Everyone knows about your past injuries, so why are you confident this time you can stay healthy and play consistently?

Porzingis: I can’t really explain it, but I just have confidence. I’m certain I can do it. I’ll do everything right, and I believe I can remain healthy.

Reporter: This is a contract year for you. Does that affect your performance on the court? Or does it have no impact?

Porzingis: Not at all. Honestly, at this stage of my career, I know there are stats that say players perform better in contract years, but I don’t pay much attention to that. I just want to finish this season strong. This season has had its ups and downs, and I want to close this chapter well with the new team and then see what the future holds.

Reporter: You were teammates with Horford in Boston before. Has he reached out to you since the trade?

Porzingis: Yes, we just talked in the locker room. We’ll have more time to communicate later, and he should help me adapt faster here. It’s great to have an old teammate like Horford, someone I’ve played several seasons with. Honestly, everyone here is very warm and friendly. I’m really looking forward to building new relationships and getting to know everyone.

Reporter: Given your abilities and career achievements, it must be frustrating to be limited by injuries recently. Joining a team with Curry and Draymond, is this a fresh start for you?

Porzingis: Absolutely, it’s a brand new chapter. I think it’s a perfect chance to start fresh. From my current communications with the team’s medical staff and personnel, I have to say I’m very impressed and optimistic. I feel I’m receiving excellent care—some of the best. That gives me confidence. I’m really looking forward to exceeding expectations after the All-Star break.

Reporter: Can you elaborate on why you feel so impressed? What exactly surprised you?

Porzingis: What surprised me? It’s hard to explain, but from our very first conversations, we clicked. I’d heard many good things before, but now experiencing it firsthand, I truly understand why this team is considered one of the best. It’s been very helpful for my recovery.

Reporter: What did you mainly talk about with Coach Kerr when you first met at the hotel? Had you met Curry before?

Porzingis: My first chat with Kerr was brief. I arrived at the hotel just as he was leaving, so we exchanged greetings and a few words. We’ll have more time to discuss basketball later. As for Curry, I’ve always been a huge fan, and he knows that. After games, I always say hi and tell him how incredible he is. Playing alongside a player like him is so cool. Having such a player on the team raises everyone’s level. He’s a special player who makes everyone better.

Reporter: Is your goal to make your comeback in the first game after the All-Star break?

Porzingis: Yes, that’s exactly my goal.

Reporter: Do you plan to gradually increase your playing time or jump right in...?

Porzingis: Play the full 48 minutes straight (reporters laugh). We’ll see; it depends on the medical staff’s evaluation. But as I said, I want to be ready to perform immediately upon return and maintain that level.

Reporter: The Warriors have been looking for a center who can protect the rim and space the floor like you, especially to complement Draymond. How strong do you think your frontcourt partnership will be?

Porzingis: Draymond has always been one of my toughest opponents. I know him well and how much trouble he causes his opponents. Now being teammates with him feels great. His experience, basketball IQ, and toughness on the court will complement me well. I’m really looking forward to playing alongside him.

Reporter: Last question, as a veteran, what is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career that will help you integrate faster with the Warriors and start this new chapter?

Porzingis: I think it’s not forcing things. The older I get, the more I realize that when I was younger, I always wanted to score and chase stats, but in the end, as long as the rhythm is right, you’re a good teammate, and you do your part, everything comes naturally. So I won’t force anything; I’ll let the game, the rhythm, and everything find me naturally.