Kristaps Porzingis optimistic he'll return from sore Achilles for Knicks' next game after si

TORONTO — Kristaps Porzingis, who began his professional career in Spain, told reporters "no problema" after going through a workout prior to sitting out Sunday's game against the Raptors.

Porzingis missed his second straight game and fifth overall due to a sore left Achilles. Jeff Hornacek listed the second-year forward as doubtful for Monday's afternoon home game against Atlanta but Porzingis is optimistic that he'll play.

"The way I feel right now I should be available tomorrow," Porzingis said. "It all depends on what the doctors say. They want to make sure I'm good and it's 100 percent healed before I step out on the court."

Porzingis' replacement, Lance Thomas, lasted just 1 minute and 50 seconds before being forced to leave after he was inadvertently elbowed in the face by Jonas Valanciunas. Thomas did not return.

BYFRANK ISOLA

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS