The Golden State Warriors must do everything possible to keep All-Star guard Stephen Curry’s championship window open. One way to achieve this is by making a strategic move involving Brandin Podziemski, who has been recognized as a top trade asset in the NBA.
Despite the Warriors’ struggles last season, Podziemski believes the team is close to regaining their dominant form. The 21-year-old guard stood out with his impressive growth during his rookie year, offering a bright spot for the team.
The Warriors faced numerous challenges last season, including Draymond Green’s suspension, Chris Paul’s injury, and Klay Thompson’s shooting slump. However, the emergence of young talents like Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and Moses Moody has provided hope for the future.
With Curry still performing at an elite level, the Warriors are under pressure to maximize his remaining prime years. Curry has urged the front office to address the team’s needs and position him for another championship run. Podziemski’s confidence in the team’s ability to blend veteran leadership with young talent suggests the Warriors may be on the verge of a resurgence in the upcoming season.
While Podziemski’s potential is a positive for the Warriors, there is a case for using him to strengthen the team further. Dan Favale of Bleacher Report suggests that Golden State has a compelling reason to consider trading the young guard.
“Investing in Podziemski’s All-Star ceiling requires confidence in his jumper. He hit 38.5 percent of his three-pointers, including an impressive 56.5 percent on step-back threes (13-of-23). However, his self-created shot volume is modest—over 62 percent of his made baskets came off assists—and he converted only 63.3 percent of his free-throw attempts.
Skeptics might rank him below players like Jaime Jaquez Jr., which is understandable. But as he approaches 22, I’m buying his potential as a shot-maker and playmaker. Jaquez offers more defensive versatility, while Podziemski can create more offensive chaos.
Considering his good size for a combo guard (6’5”) and the three years remaining on his rookie-scale contract, it’s no wonder the Utah Jazz are insisting on Podziemski’s inclusion in a Lauri Markkanen trade,” Favale wrote.
