Kristaps Porzingis' biggest issue throughout his entire career has been injury after injury. The former 4th-overall pick has proven that he can be a valuable piece to any roster, but he hasn't been able to keep himself healthy in the last few years. Now, a trade to the Washington Wizards will hopefully be the fresh start he needs.

After the fateful trade to the Wizards, Kristaps Porzingis made a bold declaration about his status, saying we haven't seen the best version of himself. (via NBC Sports)

“I don't think we have seen [the best version of me] yet… I'm 26 years old, and it's been a roller coaster. There's an injury, you're out of rhythm so you have to get your rhythm back and conditioning. I think this is the perfect situation for me to finish out this season strong, get in a good rhythm, hopefully make some noise as a team.

Article Continues Below
More Washington Wizards News
Will Dawkins and Michael Winger smile next to 2025 NBA Draft logo
The only blockbuster NBA Draft trade Wizards must pursueJoshua Valdez ·
Naz Reid playing for Timberwolves with T-Wolves logo in background.
Ranking 3 best Naz Reid free-agency destinations if he leaves TimberwolvesBailey Bassett ·
Kristaps Porzingis playing for the Wizards.
Wizards trade proposal for Kristaps Porzingis in offseason if Celtics shed salaryBailey Bassett ·
Washington Wizards forward Alexandre Sarr (20), guard Carlton Carrington (8) and Orlando Magic center Moritz Wagner (21) watch for the rebound during the second half at Kia Center.
Wizards’ Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington make wild franchise history with All-Rookie nodsJoshua Valdez ·
image thumbnail
Warriors rumors: Brandin Podziemski trade proponents want a player more like Jordan PooleJulian Ojeda ·
Fans behind 2025 NBA Draft logo
Why there’s still hope for Wizards after drawing No. 6 pick in draft lotteryJoshua Valdez ·

Prior to being traded from the Dallas Mavericks, Porzingis has been having a bounce-back season. He was on the path of redeeming his playoff failures last year, helping anchor a surprisingly stout defense under Kidd. However, the Latvian star was surprisingly traded during the deadline to the Wizards for Spencer Dinwiddie and Davis Bertans.

Now, Porzingis will headline a Wizards roster that is without star Bradley Beal, who is out for the season after undergoing surgery. He'll be joining Kyle Kuzma and Rui Hachimura in a bid to salvage what's left of a promising season ruined by turmoil. Moving forward, the front office is also hoping he can be a big reason for Beal to stay in DC.