Brandon Podziemski: The Golden State Warriors’ Bold New Bet

Brandon Podziemski had an eventful offseason, engaging in high-level practices with Team USA’s Select Team and becoming the subject of trade talks, including rumors involving Lauri Markkanen. Despite this, the Golden State Warriors have been adamant about retaining him, and it’s clear they have big plans for the 21-year-old guard. One of those plans includes significantly increasing his shooting load, with reports suggesting the Warriors want him to attempt between eight to ten three-pointers per game.

This move has raised eyebrows, leaving many wondering why the Warriors are so invested in a young player who only averaged nine points per game last season on a team that didn’t make the playoffs. But if there’s one thing Podziemski proved during his rookie season, it’s that he is a winning player. Despite the Warriors’ challenges last year, they still finished with a respectable 46-36 record.

A Key Contributor in His Rookie Year

While the Warriors did not make the playoffs, Podziemski made a notable impact, especially for a rookie. His plus-minus was among the highest for rookies last season, ranking alongside players like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, which is remarkable given his role on the team. His versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game set him apart. He averaged nearly four assists per game, with a standout performance against the Memphis Grizzlies where he recorded 14 assists. His passing ability, combined with his shooting and playmaking skills, made him an essential piece for the Warriors.

Podziemski’s ability to contribute extended beyond traditional point guard duties. He displayed a strong sense of court awareness, rebounding with impressive numbers for his position. At 6’4″, he averaged almost six rebounds per game in under 27 minutes, translating to approximately 7.8 rebounds on a per-36-minute basis. This effort on the boards placed him among the top rebounders for guards, outpacing even larger players like Josh Hart and just behind Sadiq Bey and Scottie Barnes.

The Unseen Skills

Podziemski has shown an ability to read the game and respond quickly, an invaluable trait on any team. His rebounding skills, despite being undersized for a typical rebounding leader, were evident in his hustle plays. He led the league in charges drawn as a rookie, exemplifying his willingness to put his body on the line for the team. This tenacity, combined with his basketball IQ, makes him a valuable player who can adapt and contribute in various situations.

This adaptability was on display during his scrimmages with Team USA, where rising star Cooper Flagg noted that Podziemski “plays at a great pace and the right way.” Such high praise from a promising young talent underscores Podziemski’s intangibles and basketball instincts. Whether he’s diving for loose balls, grabbing offensive rebounds, or making the right pass, Podziemski consistently demonstrates his commitment to winning.

More Than Just Hustle

While hustle and effort define much of Podziemski’s game, he also possesses a refined skill set. He’s capable of making smart plays and reading the defense. During one play in particular, he took advantage of a mismatch against Jalen Smith, adjusting his shot attempt mid-drive to set up a cutting Moses Moody for an easy basket. It’s these kinds of instincts that have endeared him to the Warriors’ coaching staff.

Additionally, Podziemski had the best assist-to-turnover ratio among rookies last season, averaging only 1.2 turnovers per game. This efficiency is crucial for a team that often emphasizes ball movement and careful decision-making. Podziemski doesn’t need to dominate the ball to be effective, a quality that fits well with the Warriors’ system.

A Growing Confidence

During the summer league, Podziemski appeared more aggressive and confident, even showing a more physical side to his game. One play, where he attacked the rim with a powerful dunk, hinted at a new level of confidence and assertiveness. This is a promising sign for the Warriors, as they look for him to take on an expanded role this season. He has the potential to be an explosive scorer, especially if he continues to take advantage of his athleticism and shooting touch.

The Need for a Sharpshooter

With the Warriors looking to integrate younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody alongside veterans like Draymond Green and Andrew Wiggins, Podziemski’s shooting will be pivotal. The team is counting on him to stretch the floor and create space for their established stars, including Stephen Curry. The Warriors’ coaching staff has emphasized the importance of three-point shooting, and Podziemski has already shown glimpses of his potential in this area during the summer league.

In one play that epitomized the Warriors’ style, Podziemski came off a pin-down screen for an off-ball three-pointer, showcasing his ability to score from long range. If he can develop consistency from beyond the arc, he will become an even more valuable asset. With the Warriors aiming to compete for a championship, they need Podziemski to become a reliable three-point shooter who can contribute significant minutes.

Room for Growth

Of course, Podziemski is far from a finished product. He still has areas for improvement, particularly as a ball-handler and a shot creator. The Warriors are hopeful that he will continue to develop and eventually reach a point where he can run the offense when needed. Until then, his focus will likely be on improving his three-point shooting volume and efficiency.

The goal for Podziemski is to become a high-volume three-point shooter who can consistently knock down shots from beyond the arc. The Warriors have set a lofty target of eight to ten attempts per game, which indicates the level of trust they have in his potential. If he can reach that level of shooting proficiency, he will provide a crucial boost to the Warriors’ spacing and offensive dynamics.

Final Thoughts

Brandon Podziemski has already shown that he has the tools to be a successful NBA player, but the Warriors are betting that he can become even more. His combination of hustle, basketball IQ, and versatility makes him an intriguing player to watch as he enters his second season. If he can continue to improve and become the sharpshooter the Warriors need, Podziemski could be an essential piece of the Warriors’ championship aspirations in the coming years.

As the Warriors gear up for another season, all eyes will be on Podziemski to see if he can take that next step. With a promising mix of talent, effort, and the right system around him, Podziemski has a bright future ahead, and the Warriors’ faith in him might just pay off in a big way.