“I love it. Take the 3, go for the throat,” said Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, reflecting on the aggressive play style he encourages in his young players. This sentiment rings particularly true for Brandin Podziemski, who scored 25 points in a hard-fought game against the New York Knicks on March 16, 2026, at Madison Square Garden.
Despite Podziemski’s standout performance, the Warriors fell short, losing 110-107. The game was emblematic of the Warriors’ current struggles, as they have now lost five straight games. The absence of star player Stephen Curry, sidelined with a knee injury, has significantly impacted the team’s performance. With Curry and several other key players unavailable, the Warriors have been forced to rely heavily on their younger roster.
Podziemski’s contributions in the game were notable beyond just his scoring. He also recorded 5 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals, showcasing his all-around game. His shooting stats included an 8-for-15 effort from the field, 2-for-7 from three-point range, and 7-for-9 from the free-throw line. Over the past nine games, Podziemski has averaged 18.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.6 assists, demonstrating his growing importance to the team.
As the Warriors navigate this challenging stretch, Podziemski’s development has become a focal point. “Get thrown into the fire. Probably the best way to learn is just get out and get reps, get out there and just continue to get a feel for games, situations,” said Gary Payton II, emphasizing the value of experience for the younger players.
With seven of the team’s eight top scorers unavailable for the game against the Knicks, Podziemski’s role has become even more critical. The Warriors have struggled since losing Curry before the All-Star break, posting a 5-12 record in that span. The team’s depth has been tested, with only 10 active players available for the matchup against New York.
Podziemski himself acknowledged the challenges but also the opportunities presented by the situation. “With so many players out, we have a chance to build confidence that could eventually carry over for when Golden State’s veterans eventually return,” he noted, highlighting the potential for growth amidst adversity.
As the Warriors look to regroup, they will need to find ways to harness the energy and confidence of their younger players like Podziemski. Kerr’s philosophy of aggressive play will be crucial as the team aims to turn around their fortunes in the coming games.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for Curry’s return, but the Warriors will need to continue relying on their emerging talents as they navigate the remainder of the season.