Warriors’ Sage Draymond Green Expresses Confidence in Brandin Podziemski but Issues Cautionary Advice The Athletic
Draymond Green, a key figure for the Golden State Warriors, recently addressed the media, sharing insights on teammate Brandin Podziemski. Green’s comments came after Podziemski expressed his desire to earn the trust of veteran players like Green and Stephen Curry during a team practice. The interaction highlights the importance of mentorship within the Warriors’ organization, as Green, who has spent 13 seasons with the team, is viewed as a protector and vocal leader.
Green’s Support for Podziemski
During a lengthy response, Green conveyed both respect for Podziemski’s ambitions and a dose of caution. He emphasized that while it’s commendable for younger players to seek approval, they must be mindful of the expectations tied to their words.
Treading Carefully on Confidence
Green noted that confidence is vital for young athletes. However, he warned Podziemski not to overextend himself publicly. “Don’t tell people too much,” Green advised. He believes that the pressure from expectations can weigh heavily on young players, potentially leading to criticism during tough times.
The Importance of Experience
- Green talked about his journey from a second-round draft pick to a multiple-time NBA champion.
- He highlighted the support from seasoned players like himself and Curry as beneficial for Podziemski’s development.
- “It is essential to protect yourself from external pressures,” Green stated, emphasizing the value of building relationships with teammates.
Expectations for the Upcoming Season
As the Warriors prepare for the regular season, Green’s guidance is crucial. The team aims to maintain its championship aspirations while managing the health of its core players. Green believes that young talents like Podziemski need to step up when veterans take breaks during the season.
A Trustworthy Journey Ahead
Despite the challenges, Green remains optimistic about Podziemski’s trajectory within the team. “We all have the utmost confidence in him,” Green said, indicating that the young guard has the potential to excel with the right mentorship. Following the team’s culture of growth, Green encourages Podziemski to embrace development while navigating the pressures of professional basketball.
With the season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers approaching, both Green and Warriors head coach Steve Kerr have indicated that Podziemski is set to join them in the starting lineup. Kerr’s ongoing praise for the young guard signals a promising start for Podziemski as he works to solidify his role on the team.
