Brandin Podziemski led the Golden State Warriors with 25 points in Friday’s 127-117 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Chase Center, offering insight into how the team adapts during stretches of injuries. “I look at it as a blessing in disguise just because it’s an opportunity and you’re able to build confidence,” Podziemski said on handling a depleted roster.
The guard emphasized the importance of maintaining energy and focus, especially after Minnesota’s 39-point third quarter widened the gap. “Just come out with a sense of urgency in the third quarter, see what we could do with it. Got some stops, some turnovers, and were able to capitalize and just kept that momentum I feel like throughout the last 24 minutes,” he explained.
Podziemski acknowledged the challenges of playing without several starters but highlighted a team-first approach. “When guys start leaving the game with injuries, you have to adjust. My goal is just help lead the young guys and guys coming off the bench, just giving them confidence,” he said. He also stressed that confidence gained in these situations benefits the roster once injured players return.
Discussing defensive assignments, Podziemski described guarding top-tier scorers like Anthony Edwards as a significant test. “As a defense, league-wide, you probably would be okay giving up the majority of the shots that he took tonight,” he said, pointing to Edwards’ 42-point night. Podziemski added that he focuses on reacting to the game and encouraging teammates to “lose yourself in the game. Every open shot they have, shoot it. Don’t let the outcome dictate the process.”
The veteran guard also addressed the physical demands of the season and his approach to health. “Coming in, I built a good routine for myself in the back half of last year. That makes me feel really good on game days. I wanted to play 82 this year. That’s still my goal,” Podziemski said, noting the difficulty of heavy minutes and back-to-back games.
Podziemski highlighted the offensive impact of Kristaps Porzingis’ return to the starting lineup. “I think spacing, especially on the back-to-back in Minnesota where we didn’t have Al or KP, it makes it a little easier on Rudy to just sit in the paint. Having them able to space the floor really helps open up the floor for us,” he said.
Finally, Podziemski reflected on leadership and trust. “It starts from how you approach the game. Coming in as a rookie and filling voids, taking charges, offensive rebounding, you find your niche, and over time opportunity grows,” he said.
