Rising stars illuminate a new Warriors dynasty around Stephen Curry
Underwhelming performances from Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins, coupled with Draymond Green's indefinite suspension, have shifted the attention of the Golden State Warriors to their future. A trio of young players — Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis — has emerged, showcasing the potential to redefine the team's direction.
In a notable move during a 119-116 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Dec. 12, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr benched Thompson, Wiggins and Kevon Looney in the crucial moments of the game.
Two days later against the Los Angeles Clippers, Kerr started rookie Podziemski for the first time and gave Kuminga his second start of the season. Both have remained in the starting lineup for six consecutive games. While Jackson-Davis hasn't secured a starting role, he's consistently contributed off the bench, never playing less than 15 minutes in the last five games.
The statistical performances of these budding talents in December are promising. Podziemski is averaging 11.1 PPG, 4.2 assists, 6.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals in nearly 30 minutes per game. He also isn't afraid of the spotlight, making history on Christmas Day against the Denver Nuggets, becoming the first rookie in NBA history to have 9+ rebounds, 6+ assists, 5+ steals and 3+ three-pointers in a single game.
Kuminga maintains averages of 14.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.4 assists across 24.4 minutes, while Jackson-Davis provides 8.6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1 block in just 17.6 minutes coming off the bench.
Despite being in the developmental phase, their skills and determination echo the blueprint that formed the foundation for the Warriors' previous dynasty.
Comparing this season to the 2020-21 campaign reveals striking similarities.
Both periods witnessed the team hovering around a .500 record, signifying a phase of adjustment and transition. However, the crucial divergence lies in the development of young talent. The previous season placed heavy expectations on emerging stars like James Wiseman, Jordan Poole, Jordan Bell, Eric Paschall and Nico Mannion to support the team. None of these players remain on the 2023-24 Warriors roster.
Now, the emergence of Podziemski, Jackson-Davis and Kuminga signifies a new era for the Warriors. These young prospects bring fresh optimism, embodying the talent necessary to build a new dynasty around the ever-reliable Stephen Curry.
In essence, the Golden State Warriors stand on the cusp of a promising era — a blend of seasoned experience and budding potential. Challenges may lie ahead, but the foundation laid by these emerging talents, guided by established veterans, offers a tantalizing glimpse into a future where a new Warriors dynasty could once again reign supreme.
More must-reads: