David Fizdale said he doesn't expect Kristaps Porzingis to return to practice any time soon. 

Fizdale, however, did say that Porzingis has been an excellent leader during his rehab.

"I'm so happy with him under the circumstances," Fizdale said. "I know it's killing him to not play. But he's in there [at the practice facility] every day rooting these guys on."

Some have doubted whether Porzingis will play at all this season as he recovers from a torn ACL.

"Why would he come back?" one executive said.