Brandin Podziemski Has a Bold and Misinformed Goal for This Season

Brandin Podziemski is one of the top candidates on the Golden State Warriors for a breakout year. The Warriors have a veteran-heavy roster, and Podziemski is one of the young guys that the vets will need to lean on throughout the season. Last year, Podz averaged 11.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals in 26.8 minutes per game.

This year, Podz could see an expanded role. He is probably the Warriors’ second-best ball-handling guard after Stephen Curry, and his ability to gel with both the first and second unit should keep in on the court throughout the year. 

Podz did an interview with Kerith Burke on “Dubs Talk” and explained some of his goals for the upcoming season. 

"I've looked at both Steph and Jimmy in particular, and how year after year, they're able to play 65-plus games being at the age they are, and doing it at the usage and high level they're doing it at. I've definitely asked my fair share of questions to both of things in the offseason, things in-season they do to help them stay healthy…I think another goal of mine is just, 'How can I play 75-plus games?' Obviously, the first year I think it was 74, this year I think it was in the 60s, so how can I try and get up to that 80-mark this year and be there present for all the games."

Trying to play 80 games is an awesome goal. In today's NBA, it is very difficult. Additionally, Podz may have a skewed perception of Steph and Jimmy’s ability to stay on the floor. Curry has played 65+ games in the last two seasons, but the four seasons before that failed to reach 65 games.

Butler’s history is a lot worse. Butler hasn’t played 65 games in an NBA season since the 2018–19 season.

So while Podz’s goal is admirable, he probably should look at other players around the league if he is trying to emulate pristine health.