How Did Steve Kerr Criticize Podziemski?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Dec 5, 2024 12:06 PM ET

Entering last summer, the Golden State Warriors were linked to Paul George and Lauri Markkanen on the trade market, but their reluctance to include promising young guard Brandin Podziemski in any deal threw some cold water on trade talks. After a solid rookie season, Podziemski was expected to take off in year two, but he has taken a step back on both sides of the ball.

In the Warriors' four-point loss to the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday, Podz delivered 13 points, four assists, and two steals, but his five turnovers and two fouls proved to be costly as the Warriors lost a double-digit lead.

With the Warriors up by nine in the fourth quarter, Podziemki bricked a 3-pointer over Nikola Jokic despite Andrew Wiggins and Moses Moody being open on the perimeter. He then fouled Michael Porter Jr. on a 3-point attempt, resulting in a four-point play that made it a two-possession game.

After the game, Steve Kerr did not hold back.

"He can’t foul jump shooters," Kerr said bluntly. "I love Brandin. Hell of a player. Hell of a future. But I hope he watches this [interview] because he needs to hear it. He has gotta be a smart tough great decision maker he's very capable of it, but that's his next step."

Podziemski opened up earlier this season about how his inclusion in trade rumors shattered his confidence, despite the Warriors labeling him "untouchable." With Kerr ready to go scorched Earth with his best young player, a wake-up call is clearly needed.

The Dubs are nowhere near ready to give up on Podz, who they think can turn into an elite guard. He flashed two-way potential last season, but he is in desperate need of a turnaround if the Warriors are to make a playoff run.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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