Nets vs Warriors: Brandin Podziemski Replaces Andrew Wiggins as Starter

The Golden State Warriors will go head-to-head against the Brooklyn Nets tonight. It will be a difficult matchup for Stephen Curry and Co. because they will play without their star player, Andrew Wiggins. Wiggins injured his ankle during Saturday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks and will sit out tonight’s clash. In Wiggins’ absence, head coach Steve Kerr has promoted rookie Brandin Podziemski to the starting lineup.

Podziemski will start the game alongside Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Jonathan Kuminga, and Draymond Green. The Nets game will be Podziemski’s 12th start of this season. The 20-year-old rookie has played well all season and has been a key contributor to the Warriors’ roster. Podziemski is averaging 9.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in his rookie season. Steve Kerr has been criticized all season for not giving young players like Podziemski and Kuminga more playing time. Tonight’s starting nod could be a chance for both players to prove their worth to the Warriors head coach.

Even though Brandin Podziemski will replace Wiggins as a starter, the forward’s absence could affect the Warriors’ productivity. Wiggins left the game on Saturday after playing only 19 minutes due to the ankle injury. He finished his night early with only 2 points and 4 rebounds. The severity of Wiggins’ injury is unknown, and it is still uncertain when he will return to action. Wiggins’ injury has come at an awful time for him because his name has been in the trade rumors all season. His productivity has declined immensely this season, and he is having the worst scoring year of his career. He averages only 12.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists.

Read More: Warriors Injury Report: Latest Update on Stephen Curry’s Availability Tonight vs the Nets

The Warriors could trade Andrew Wiggins

If Steve Kerr’s new starting lineup works out for the Warriors, they could consider trading Andrew Wiggins for a bigger star. The February 8 trade deadline is only 3 days away, and Dub Nation expects their front office to make a significant upgrade to the roster. With Andrew Wiggins out due to injury and facing a constant decline in performance, the Warriors could trade him to make room for younger players. Steve Kerr has been closing several games with Podziemski because of his playmaking ability, and the rookie could become a permanent starter if he performs well tonight.

Apart from Wiggins, the Warriors could trade Klay Thompson or Draymond Green. Both superstars have also not played like their usual selves this season. Klay is on an expiring contract, and it might be better for the Warriors to get the best value for him before he decides to test free agency.

Who do you think the Warriors will trade before the February 8 deadline?

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