Brandin Podziemski wants people to keep doubting his Warriors, who are predicted to win 43.5 games and miss the playoffs this season.
Responding to Critics:
In a chat with NBC Sports Bay Area, Podz talked about an anonymous NBA coach comparing the older Warriors team to a washed-up rock band. Fresh from batting practice at Oracle Park, he seemed pumped up.
“We don’t love to hear that,” he said. “But we love it because we’re going to do something no one expects. They don’t think we’re the Warriors of old, and for us, it’s just the best feeling when you have nothing to lose and prove people wrong. Steph [Curry] is one of those guys who thrives on proving doubters wrong. To be alongside him in the backcourt, and with our other guys, we’re excited.”
Podziemski’s Role This Season:
The second-year guard is set to be a major player in Golden State’s offense this year after showing promise as a rookie playmaker and shooter. In an earlier interview, Podz mentioned he’d be attempting 10 threes per game this season, filling in for Klay Thompson who joined the Mavericks as a free agent.
Warriors governor Joe Lacob and head coach Steve Kerr have praised Podziemski openly, saying he’s being groomed as Curry’s successor. He’s become such a favorite that he’s been labeled “untouchable” in trade talks involving stars like Lauri Markkanen and Paul George.
Fans can’t wait to see how he performs!
Now it’s up to Podz to show he’s worth all this hype. The Warriors start their season against the Blazers on Oct. 23.
