Brandin Podziemski has enjoyed a stellar rookie season with the Golden State Warriors.
In 59 games, he’s averaging 9.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists while shooting 44.7% from the field and 37.8% from deep. He’s also started 24 games. Due to his production and professionalism, Podziemski projects as a potential star.
However, Podziemski is still a rookie, which means, on occasion, he’ll struggle to make an impact. He’s still learning the league and working out how to attack different coverages and matchups. That much was evident as he failed to make his presence felt during the Warriors’ loss to the New York Knicks on Monday.
“Yeah he had a tough night, but that’s to be expected,” Steve Kerr said during an appearance on “Willard and Dibs.” “Especially as a rookie and down the stretch of the season. He’s played a lot of minutes this year, but he still plays with a lot of energy. I think the biggest thing is just continuing to show on tape things he can improve upon and remind him of the details of the details that are really important for him.”
Golden State’s younger core has begun to emerge this season. Podzienski, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody and Trayce Jackson-Davis have enjoyed breakout seasons.
However, when featuring so much young talent, you have to accept inconsistent performances will be part of the deal. Still, given the championship core is entering the final stages of their careers, it makes sense to start ushering in the next generation. Podziemski has been solid for most of the season, and a bad night was always inevitable.
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