Warriors could have two All-Rookie selections

The Golden State Warriors could see both Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis be named to an All-Rookie team.

Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis enjoyed stellar rookie seasons for the Golden State Warriors. Both young players experienced some time in the starting lineup. Jackson-Davis developed a reliable partnership with Draymond Green in the frontcourt. Podziemski earned the praise of Steph Curry. 

During a recent interview with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, Podziemski revealed he expects both himself and Jackson-Davis to make an All-Rookie team this year. He believes he will be a first-team selection, and Jackson-Davis should be first or second team. Both rookies made an impact on Steve Kerr’s roster.

“Every week I see NBA.com’s rookie ladder,” Podziemski said. “To see both of our names in the top-10 list is super fulfilling. But, I think in a much broader perspective, if you could re-draft, you wouldn’t take me 19 and you wouldn’t take him 57. So, we’ve made our impact. … I think we’re the best rookie duo in the league.”

Both Podziemski and Jackson-Davis project to have bright futures with the Warriors. It’s also likely they will have bigger roles within the rotation in the coming years: a jump in minutes could potentially happen next season,

It will be interesting to see if both rookies are rewarded for their strong debut seasons by being named to an All-Rookie team. Regardless of what happens, they will certainly be rewarded for their performances once the next season gets underway.

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Brandin Podziemski believes he should make All-Rookie first team

Brandin Podziemski wants to make All-Rookie First Team after an impressive debut season in the NBA.

Brandin Podziemski was drafted with the 19th pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He quickly established himself as part of the Golden State Warriors’ rotation, making 74 appearances in his debut season. Twenty-eight of those appearances were starts as Steve Kerr rewarded the 6-foot-5 wing for his impressive displays and veteran-like approach to the game.

During a recent interview with NBC Sports Bay Area, Podzeimski shared his belief he belongs on the All-Rookie first team this season. He pointed to the positive impact he’s made on the court and how he could have produced higher numbers if he were in a similar situation to some of the other rookies around the NBA.

“I don’t know how they look at it – if it’s numbers based, if it’s wins based, if you’re impacting the team,” Podziemski said. “All in all, if you look at the top-five rookies I think I’m in that category, just based on what I bring on a daily basis, who I have around me, what kind of team I’m playing on, my usages. Because I feel like If I was in some of the other rookie’s situations … I’m still putting up more numbers, too.”

Podziemski ended his rookie season with averages of 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists while shooting 45.4% from the field and 38.5% from 3-point range. He also overcame stern competition for minutes on a roster full of veteran talent with hopes of contending for a championship.

In reality, being named to the All-Rookie first team wouldn’t change much for Podziemski. He’s already expected to have a bigger role in the Warriors’ rotation next season, and he’s established himself as part of the franchise’s young core for the future. Nevertheless, the recognition would prove what Golden State fans already know: He was a genuine steal in the draft.

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Kerr sees similarities between Brandin Podziemski and Lakers favorite

The Golden State Warriors head coach can see some similarities between the two fan favorites.

Brandin Podziemski was a bright spot for the Golden State Warriors this season. The rookie wing impressed throughout the 74 regular-season games he played. Steve Kerr believes there are similarities between his rookie wing and Los Angeles Lakers fan favorite Austin Reaves.

Kerr coached Reaves at the 2023 FIBA World Cup. As such, he understands what both players bring to a team and how they’re able to defy expectations to prove themselves as high-level talents in the NBA. Kerr shared his thoughts while addressing the media on Friday (April 19.)

“He’s a different player from Austin Reaves, but I see similarities — just having coached Austin this past year, in the World Cup,” Kerr said. “They’re similar sized. They’re both a lot stronger and quicker than they look on the floor. Some of it is because their game speed is really high. They may not time well in the 40, but their game speed, because of their reaction or their proactivity on the floor, both guys, there’s a lot to their games.”

Podziemski will undoubtedly want to impress during his sophomore season. There will be minutes up for grabs and potentially a spot in the starting lineup. Kerr will likely expect to see some growth from his young and upcoming star before committing to giving him a larger role.

Podziemski ended his rookie year with averages of 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists. He shot 45.4% from the field and 38.5% from 3-point range. It’s fair to assume we will see all of those numbers increase next season, as he showcases the developments he’s made after a strong offseason.

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Brandin Podziemski details improvement goals for next season

Brandin Podziemski is looking to improve his overall game in the upcoming offseason.

Brandin Podziemski enjoyed a strong rookie season. He established himself as an important piece of the Golden State Warriors rotation and flirted with a starting role. He also earned significant praise from some of his veteran teammates. 

As with any rookie entering their first full offseason, Podziemski wants to improve his game. When speaking to the media on Wednesday, he detailed the aspects he’ll focus on as he looks to earn a bigger role in the rotation during his sophomore year in the league.

“I think the ball will be in my hands a little bit more,” Podziemski said. “Just being more efficient. Trying to take the burden off of Steph and Draymond’s shoulders. Helping the rest of our guys impact things. I think when we got into games that really mattered or we really needed to win, we kind of just deferred to Steph. … I think for our other guys, it’s ‘how can we impact games that are meaningful?’ … Just in all facets of the game, continue to elevate my assist to turnover ratio. Try to lead the team in rebounding again. Just all that kind of stuff that impacts winning at a high level.”

In the coming years, the Warriors will lean more on their younger core to lead the way. Podziemski will likely be among the front-runners for a starring role. 

As such, having summers like this one, where the young talent is heading into it with multiple areas of improvement as a focus, is important. It will allow the Warriors to improve their overall talent level while securing their franchise’s future.

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Warriors’ Brandin Podziemski names Spurs legend as major influence

Brandin Podziemski revealed that Manu Ginobili has been a big influence in his play style during a recent interview.

Brandin Podziemski has been a huge hit with the Golden State Warriors this season. The rookie wing has produced at a high level whenever called upon and is seen as a potential future star in the Bay Area. He has also been earning praise from some of the roster’s veteran stars.

During a recent appearance on the “See Hendo” YouTube channel, Podziemski gave a wide-ranging interview. However, one of the biggest standouts was when he revealed that San Antonio Spurs legend Manu Ginobili influenced his approach to and look at playing the game.

Ginobili is widely seen as one of the best sixth-men in NBA history. Podziemski has primarily been a bench contributor for the Warriors this season. 35 of his 57 games this season have come via Steve Kerr‘s second unit rotation.

You can watch the full interview by clicking on the embedded link above.

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Brandin Podziemski wants to be Steph Curry’s eventual successor

The Golden State Warriors rookie is already looking ahead to the future, as he bids to become Steph Curry’s successor.

Brandin Podziemski wants to be Steph Curry‘s successor once the veteran superstar calls time on his career. Podziemski has been enjoying a strong rookie season for the Golden State Warriors, earning Curry’s praise in the process. However, he has a long way to go before he can fill the legendary shooter’s shoes within the Warriors rotation.

When speaking to the media after his participation in the NBA’s Rising Stars game, Podziemski shared his lofty ambition. However, he did note that he still has a long way to go in his development before he would be capable of stepping out of Curry’s shadow.

“When he retires, in how many years that may be, I feel like it’s my job to fulfill what he’s doing,” Podziemski said. ““He did a really good job the first day I was a Warrior. Just reaching out, FaceTiming me and talking with me — he just kind of opened that relationship up to start. He’s been a great vet toward me. Anything I’ve ever needed on the court [and] off the court, he’s been there to take care of me. So, I’m super appreciative and thankful for that.”

Curry, 35, has been enjoying another stellar season. He’s currently averaging 28 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, shooting 46.2% from the field and 42.1% from 3-point range. Right now, it would appear Curry can continue playing for another five or more years. However, things can change pretty quickly at this point in a player’s career.

That’s why Podziemski is already setting his sights on being Curry’s eventual successor and is working to learn as much from the veteran superstar as possible. Early signs of Podziemski’s development and overall potential are good. Only time will tell if he can become an All-Star and help bridge the gap once Curry eventually enters retirement.

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Top 3 statistical performers from Warriors’ loss vs. Clippers

Here are the Golden State Warriors top three statistical performers from their loss to the LA Clippers.

The Golden State Warriors let a lead slip away during the fourth quarter; as such, they fell to the LA Clippers on Wednesday. The loss has dented Golden State’s recent resurgence and likely put them under pressure to secure a win against the Utah Jazz on Thursday.

Klay Thompson‘s decision to foul Russell Westbrook with 39 seconds remaining and the Warriors trailing by three points is likely part of why the team lost. However, Golden State’s continued inability to hold onto a lead stood out as their biggest flaw. Of course, the Clippers are one of the best teams in the NBA this season; losing to them isn’t the type of result that will set off alarm bells.

Nevertheless, the Warriors will likely want to turn their attention toward the Jazz as they look to enter the All-Star break on a good note. However, before we begin focusing on the upcoming game, it’s worth taking one more look at how the team performed against the Clippers.

Here are the Warriors top three statistical performers from their Feb. 14 loss.

Brandin Podziemski reveals frustration at Warriors’ defensive collapse

The Golden State Warriors rookie was disappointed that his team took their foot off the gas in the final quarter.

The Golden State Warriors lost their composure as they fell to the LA Clippers on Wednesday. As such, Golden State’s winning streak ended abruptly. The Warriors held a 14-point lead to begin the fourth quarter, but that quickly vanished as the Clippers upped their intensity and the Warriors failed to rise to the occasion.

When speaking to the media after the game, rookie Brandin Podziemski revealed his frustration at the team’s defense being unable to stem the Clippers’ resurgence. He noted how he was “really disappointed” at the way the Warriors struggled to control the game.

“Very frustrating for sure,” Podzienski said. “What happened in that last quarter is the complete opposite of what we’ve been doing the last seven games. It was really disappointing to see that. Everyone has gotta buy in for the team. It’s gotta be on the team’s terms. When everybody does that, you’ve seen it over the last five, six games. … Tonight, in the last quarter, it kind of flipped on us.”

One of the Warriors’ biggest issues this season has been their inability to close out games from a winning position. They have struggled to hold a lead down the stretch. It was that same issue that once again cost them a potential win.

Over the past month, the Warriors have shown encouraging growth. They’re playing with a renewed sense of urgency and have adopted a more physical style of play on the defensive end. Warriors fans will now be hoping that the loss is just a blip and the team will bounce back when they face the Utah Jazz on Thursday (Feb. 15.)

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Steph Curry praises Brandin Podziemski’s court vision

Steph Curry continues to be impressed with Brandin Podziemski’s debut season for the Golden State Warriors.

Brandin Podziemski continues to impress for the Golden State Warriors. The rookie has become a core part of Steve Kerr‘s rotation this season and projects to have a bright future in the Bay Area based on what we’ve seen from him so far. He has also received significant amounts of praise from his teammates since the season began, too.

Steph Curry, who has previously praised Podziemski, reiterated his thoughts on how intelligent Podziemski is on the floor, crediting his ability to read plays and see gaps in real time. Having that sort of praise from one of the greatest guards in history is certainly something Podzeismki won’t take lightly.

“He knows how to play,” Curry said. “He’s fearless. And he does a lot of the little things that impact winning. He hit 25 tonight and was amazing on both ends of the floor. Even when he doesn’t have the statline, there’s still a connection on both ends of the ball. He just finds a way to make the right play. Some of it you can teach, some of it you can’t, you just have a feel. He sees the pictures really well. This early, it’s pretty impressive what he’s been able to do.”

Podziemski could be a future All-Star. That’s the type of production we’re seeing from him this season. Players like Curry don’t hand out praise easily; you’ve got to earn it and continually prove you’re capable of developing your game.

Podziemski has played 46 games this season. He’s averaging 9.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, shooting 46.5% from the field and 38.3% from 3-point range. If he continues to develop, it will not be long until he’s a surefire starter for the Warriors and a core part of their future rotation.

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Top 3 statistical performers from Warriors’ win vs. Grizzlies

Here are the top three statistical performers from the Golden State Warriors win over the Memphis Grizzlies.

The Golden State Warriors have won three of their last five games. Their latest victory came against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday (Feb. 2.) Multiple players flashed their elite-level upside as they helped Steve Kerr‘s team secure another win in an attempt to build some momentum heading into the All-Star break.

Golden State’s win comes on the first night of a back-to-back, with the team set to face the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday (Feb. 3.) Fortunately for the Warriors, multiple members of the team’s younger core have begun making impactful contributions, either as part of the starting lineup or when coming off the bench.

As such, Kerr will likely feel comfortable with his team’s ability to deal with the tough scheduling while maintaining their effort level and pace of play. Still, before we begin looking ahead to the Hawks game, let’s take a look at which three members of the Warriors roster stood out in the win over Memphis.