How Dunleavy believes Warriors’ Schröder trade could benefit Podziemski originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
While the Warriors’ recent trade for veteran guard Dennis Schröder could minimize Brandin Podziemski’s role, the move could still benefit the second-year NBA guard.
Golden State general manager Mike Dunleavy spoke to local reporters on Monday and was asked how the trade for Schröder affects Podziemski after the 21-year-old’s slow start to the 2024-2025 NBA season.
“I think this move applies to both him and Steph [Curry]is something that we consider additive and helps them,” Dunleavy explained. “Brandin was really good last year, and I think part of that was Steph and [Chris Paul]two other handlers, next to him. And so I think this move allows Brandin and Steph to always be on the field with a different handler. Whether it’s the two of them or Dennis and Brandin or Dennis and Steph.
“I think it makes a lot of sense, and again, I think this is something that boosts and helps Brandin. So we feel good about it in that regard as well.”
As Dunleavy mentioned, Podziemski often shared the backcourt with future Hall of Famers Curry and Paul during his rookie season and averaged 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game on 45.4 percent shooting from the field and 38.5 percent from 3-point range in 74 games (28 starts) last season.
Through 24 games (eight starts) this season, Podziemski is averaging 7.7 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game on 37.6 percent shooting from the field and an abysmal 25 percent from three-point range.
If the addition of Schröder can ease the pressure on Podziemski, it could certainly help him return to his NBA All-Rookie First-Team form.
Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast
