The Golden State Warriors are set to welcome back young guard Brandin Podziemski for Thursday night’s game against the Chicago Bulls at Chase Center.
Podziemski, who has been sidelined for the past 12 games with an abdominal injury, is expected to give the team a significant boost as they aim to bounce back from Wednesday night’s 123-117 loss to the Sacramento Kings.
Brandin Podziemski’s return will strengthen the Warriors rotation
The Golden State Warriors have faced significant injury challenges in recent weeks, leading head coach Steve Kerr to make some unconventional rotation choices. This was evident in Wednesday’s narrow loss, where rookie center Quinten Post and second-year forward Gui Santos closed out the game—a decision reflective of their strong performances but also highlighting the team’s depleted roster.
Despite Brandin Podziemski’s return, the Warriors’ injury report remains lengthy heading into their first matchup of the season against the Chicago Bulls. Forwards Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, and Kyle Anderson are still out, while Stephen Curry, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Lindy Waters III are listed as questionable. Moses Moody and Gary Payton II are probable, and Kevon Looney, who missed the second half of Wednesday’s game due to illness, is not on the injury report.
Podziemski’s availability could become even more critical if Curry or Payton are ruled out, though it’s unclear whether the 21-year-old guard will face any minutes restrictions after recovering from the first major injury of his NBA career.
After being a prominent name in offseason trade rumors, Podziemski had a slower-than-expected start to the season, falling short of both his and the team’s high expectations. He is currently averaging 8.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists on 29.5% shooting from beyond the arc, a dip from his All-Rookie First Team numbers last season.
However, before his injury, Podziemski’s form had been improving, as he shot 48.3% (14-of-29) from three-point range over the nine games prior. His absence was somewhat overshadowed by the spotlight on Jonathan Kuminga, who had been averaging nearly 25 points and eight rebounds before suffering a severe ankle sprain.
Podziemski and the Warriors will look to return to a .500 record when they take on the Bulls at Chase Center, tipping off at 7 PM PT.
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