Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski is projected to be one of the NBA's biggest bargains in the 2026-27 season, potentially outperforming his $5.68 million contract. This internal value is key for a Warriors team that, after a quiet offseason, needs major growth from within to improve on last season's finish, which included a 115-110 loss to the LA Clippers on April 13, 2026, and a recent form of 1 win and 4 losses in their last five outings.
Why is Brandin Podziemski considered a bargain?
Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World listed Podziemski as a player who could perform above his pay grade this coming campaign. Podziemski's all-around game is the foundation of this value. He influences games without needing a high volume of shots, and at 23 years old, his offensive skills have room to develop further.
Bitar wrote that if Podziemski can turn his game into averaging 16 to 18 points with improved playmaking while keeping his efficiency, the Warriors will have extracted enormous value. For the 2026-27 season, Podziemski is scheduled to be the ninth-highest paid player on the Golden State roster, behind stars like Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler.
What is Podziemski's contract situation with the Warriors?
Podziemski is eligible to sign a contract extension with the Warriors before the start of the season. At the end of last season, he expressed a strong desire to stay with the franchise that drafted him. He said he wants to be in Golden State for the long term and hopes a deal can be completed.
If an extension isn't agreed upon, Podziemski will become a restricted free agent next offseason. The Warriors would then have the right to match any offer sheet from another team. Given his development over his first three NBA seasons, the team's interest in retaining him appears high. You can track the team's roster moves on our roster page.
How does this impact the Warriors' upcoming season?
With no major offseason additions, the Warriors' path forward relies heavily on players like Podziemski taking a step up. His potential to provide high-level production on a cost-controlled deal is a significant asset for team building. It allows financial flexibility elsewhere on the roster.
The team's need for internal improvement is showed by their recent results, including that four-game losing streak to end the previous campaign. Finding consistent contributors beyond their core stars will be essential for climbing the Western Conference standings. Podziemski's growth could be a central part of that equation, offering scoring, playmaking, and energy without straining the salary cap.
