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Brandin Podziemski told to fix one thing to become Warriors’ third guy behind Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Oct 7, 2025 7:30 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors’ primary problem last season centered on finding a reliable third scorer.

They have Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler ready to carry offensive responsibilities, but lack a consistent complementary option behind them.

Jonathan Kuminga filled that role last season, but relying on him remains questionable given his inconsistency and potential January trade availability despite his new contract.

Al Horford provides value but no longer produces consistent double-digit scoring, while Buddy Hield needs to establish consistency.

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Dalton Johnson emphasizes shooting improvement as key to Brandin Podziemski’s ascension

Warriors expert Dalton Johnson believes Brandin Podziemski represents the best candidate to become that third scoring option.

Podziemski has impressed during preseason, though Johnson identifies one specific area requiring improvement.

“We know how much Steve Kerr loves the ways that Brandin Podziemski connects everything. That’s his big buzz word, that he’s a connector,” Johnson explained.

“Podziemski does the little things, taking the charges, falling on the ground, keeping the ball moving.”

“But if he can make that year three leap, especially as a shooter like we saw his one season at Santa Clara, that’s when you’re going to see someone who can really contribute to this team on a night-in, night-out basis, and be more of a scoring option when Steph Curry or Jimmy Butler might need a night off,” he added.

Johnson emphasized Podziemski’s shooting efficiency as the critical factor determining whether he can provide reliable scoring alongside the Warriors’ established stars.

Brandin Podziemski’s shooting has shown encouraging progress since the Butler trade

Johnson noted significant improvement in Podziemski’s shooting after Butler joined the Warriors at February’s trade deadline.

The timing suggests positive correlation heading into Butler’s first full season with the franchise.

“After the Jimmy Butler trade at the February trade deadline last season, from that point to the end of the regular season, Podziemski shot 41.7% three-point range.”

“To him to make that scoring and shooting leap will be huge for his development and the Warriors,” Johnson stated.

Last season, Podziemski produced 11.7 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game while shooting 37.2% from three-point range.

Those numbers demonstrate solid production, and increased scoring with maintained consistency would position him as the Warriors’ third option they desperately need.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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