Brandin Podziemski Shines Bright in Warriors' Statement Win Over Lakers
Last night felt like a sneak preview of what could be an electric playoff showdown — and while the spotlight was expected to shine brightest on Stephen Curry and LeBron James, it was Brandin Podziemski who truly turned heads.
In a pivotal Western Conference clash at the Crypto.com Arena, the Golden State Warriors edged out the Los Angeles Lakers 123-116, with Curry and Podziemski combining for a staggering 65 points. Curry did what Curry does — racking up 37 points and draining shots from everywhere on the floor — but the breakout moment belonged to Podziemski.
This wasn’t just a solid game from the rookie — it was a defining one. He dropped 28 points, just one shy of his career-high, and his impact was felt from the opening quarter. He poured in 22 of the Warriors' first 60 points in the first half, capped off with a buzzer-beating heave from half-court that silenced the LA crowd. That moment? It didn’t just steal the highlight reel; it might’ve stirred up some painful flashbacks for Lakers fans.
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Let’s not overlook how crucial this win was. It catapulted Golden State into sole possession of fifth place in the West, just behind the Lakers and Nuggets. With both teams eyeing playoff positioning and only six games left in the regular season, every win counts — and this one felt bigger than just a notch in the win column. Golden State is now 19-2 when both Curry and newly acquired Jimmy Butler are on the court. That stat alone is enough to make any top seed nervous.
Meanwhile, LeBron still looked every bit the legend, finishing with 33 points and 9 assists. Austin Reaves also chipped in a big night with 31 points, keeping LA within striking distance. The Lakers managed to cut the lead down to five in the final minutes, but Golden State responded with three straight scoring possessions to put it away.
But seriously — back to Podziemski. For someone still early in his NBA journey, this was a statement game. He wasn’t just filling a role; he was actively swinging the momentum, hitting clutch shots, and playing with a poise well beyond his years. In a game packed with future Hall of Famers and high playoff stakes, it was the rookie who helped tip the balance.
If the playoffs started today, we’d get this exact matchup in the first round — Warriors vs. Lakers. And after last night, one thing’s clear: Brandin Podziemski isn’t just along for the ride. He’s ready to drive it.
Golden State might have Curry heating up at the perfect time, but the emergence of Podziemski as a legitimate scoring threat could be the secret weapon that turns them into a serious title contender.
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