Brandin Podziemski is focused on a fast start for the Golden State Warriors after signing a five-year, $110 million contract extension. The 23-year-old guard discussed his ambitions for a key fourth NBA season, with the team coming off a 128-118 preseason win over the Portland Trail Blazers on October 16.
Podziemski pointed to the Warriors' 2022 championship team as the blueprint. He stressed the need to win games early, especially with Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody sidelined. "I think, first and foremost, win as many games as we can before Jimmy and Moses come back," Podziemski stated. "Getting off to a really good start is super important."
The Warriors struggled out of the gate last season. They finished under .500 for the first time since 2020 and missed the playoffs. Jimmy Butler's season-ending injury in January made a bad situation worse. Coach Steve Kerr has made early momentum a central theme. Podziemski recalled Kerr emphasizing it in training camp, wanting to avoid playing catch-up in February and March.
Podziemski's durability was a rare bright spot in that difficult campaign. He was the only Warrior to appear in all 82 games, though that streak ends as he's ruled out for the season opener. His value skyrocketed late in the year. Over the final six weeks, he averaged 18.1 points per game on 47.5% shooting from the field and 39.7% from three-point range.
His final 11 games were even more impressive. Podziemski put up 20.1 points per game with a stellar 52.2 field goal percentage and 42.4% from beyond the arc. He believes maintaining that level is his baseline. "I know if I, at minimum, play the same way I played the last six weeks of the season, I'll be a pretty good player," he said. Combining that with his summer work has him excited for more.
Kerr indicated he is leaning toward including Podziemski in the starting lineup for the new season. Podziemski started 43 games last year. If he produces close to his late-season form, it will be massive for Golden State as they await Butler's return. The team's preseason form, including wins over the Lakers and Kings, shows promising signs.
The immediate focus is the regular season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers on October 21. It's a tough first test on the road. After a preseason that saw mixed results, including a loss to the Clippers, the Warriors need their core players to step up. Podziemski's new contract shows the franchise's belief in his development. His ability to score efficiently and stay on the court will be central to any playoff push. The Warriors can't afford another slow start in a competitive Western Conference.
