Brandin Podziemski Agrees to Long Term Golden State Warriors Extension

A big payday for Podziemski

Brandin Podziemski is staying in the Bay Area. The starting guard and the Golden State Warriors agreed on a five year contract extension worth 110 million dollars. His agent Bill Duffy confirmed the deal, which prevents the 23 year old from entering restricted free agency next summer.

The contract is fully guaranteed. It includes a mutual option in the final season and a trade kicker. Podziemski will make 5.6 million dollars this coming season before his pay jumps to 18.9 million dollars next year. The deal climbs to 20.4 million, 22 million, 23.5 million, and finishes with a 25 million dollar mutual option.

Golden State roster plans

General manager Mike Dunleavy made Podziemski the first draft pick of his tenure when Golden State selected him 19th overall in 2023. Keeping his first year salary number manageable gives the front office room to work. The team wants to protect future cap space to build around Stephen Curry, who agreed to take a 10 million dollar pay cut next season.

Injuries are already testing Golden State. Jimmy Butler III and Moses Moody are recovering from serious knee issues, while Kristaps Porzingis is sidelined indefinitely with a health issue. Podziemski brings stability. He played in all 82 games last season, posting career highs with 13.8 points per game, made threes, assists, and steals.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr praised his starting guard. Kerr called him a connector and said, "Brandin is a huge part of our team. He makes people better. He understands the game."

What it means for the next game

Sacramento Kings at Golden State Warriors (NBA, Sun, 11 Oct): Golden State Warriors win 70%, Sacramento Kings win 30%; projected score Golden State Warriors 119, Sacramento Kings 112. Our safest pick: Warriors to win.

Golden State Warriors at Los Angeles Lakers (NBA, Wed, 14 Oct): Los Angeles Lakers win 57%, Golden State Warriors win 43%; projected score Los Angeles Lakers 114, Golden State Warriors 111. Our safest pick: Warriors +11.5.