Brandin Podziemski impressed during the Golden State Warriors October 13 contest against the Los Angeles Lakers. The rookie wing ended the game with 10 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds, shooting 50% from the field. Podziemski could earn himself a spot in the regular-season rotation if he continues to perform at his current level.
When speaking to the media after the game, Golden State’s superstar point guard Steph Curry shared his thoughts on the team’s latest rookie prospect. Curry noted how Podziemski had impressed him with his confidence and basketball IQ. Curry also had a solid game for the Warriors, dropping 18 points against the Lakers on 5-of-8 shooting from the field.
“BP really has been showing how much he understands the game of basketball at a young age and how confident he is in himself and that shows every time he steps on the floor,” Curry said, as reported by Shayna Rubin of Mercury News. “That’s a nice surprise.”
Golden State selected Podziemski with the 19th pick in the draft. Some analysts believe the 6-foot-5 guard is one of the bigger steals of the summer due to his diverse and NBA-ready skillset. Podziemski could help fill the void left behind by Donte DiVincenzo.
The Warriors will hope that Podziemski’s quick start to life in the NBA is a sign of things to come. The rookie wing could become an important role player for the franchise in the coming months and will undoubtedly improve over the next few years. Golden State needed reliable young talent to help create a clear second timeline for when their aging veteran core begins to wane.