Brandin Podziemski has been coming into his own lately.
The Golden State Warriors are looking at a transitional era for their team where the long established stars like Steph Curry and Draymond Green are nearing the end of their careers and since the trade of Jonathan Kuminga to the Atlanta Hawks, the future of the team rests squarely on the shoulders of Brandin Podziemski.
Podziemski has been a solid role player for the Warriors in his three seasons, but his play in the last few games has shown even more steps in the right direction for the young guard.
He has the tools to be a great player and lately he's been finding a groove in what his role is with the team now and what he can be if he brings all of his skills together.
Golden State Warriors center Al Horford (20) and guard Brandin Podziemski (2) get back on defense during the second quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Petre Thomas-Imagn ImagesPodziemski's Progress
He's scored 18 or more points in his last three games and his most recent performance in the Warriors' 133-112 win over the Memphis Grizzlies was another example of the well-roundedness that his game is capable of.
Podziemski had 19 points, nine rebounds and six assists while shooting 6-14 from the field.
Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski (2) reacts during the first quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Petre Thomas-Imagn ImagesIt's a great example of the promise that Podziemski shows and Warriors head coach Steve Kerr is certainly happy with the results. Although, Kerr is quick to admit that Podziemski still has some progress to make, but he also chalks thats up to Podziemski being a young player with a lot of skills who just has to learn how to use them.
Kerr's Happy With What He Sees
"Brandin's been great. Just the totality of his game, what he does on the glass, handling the ball, playing off the ball," Kerr said (via NBC Sports Bay Area and California). "We're trying to find that balance. He still at times gets himself in trouble, but also he's a young player who has the ability to do a lot and he tries to do a lot."
The Warriors will need Podziemski to come into his own in the long run. He has a lot of potential to be a big factor in future success and a potential team leader, but finding exactly how he can be at his best and balancing his usage are some of the biggest steps to make right now.
He's also just 23 years old and while may still have some way to go before he can be the full threat that he's capable of being, Podziemski also has the luxury of taking his time to find that balance and come into his own as a player.