The Golden State Warriors held their first practice following the All-Star Weekend on February 20, 2026. Coach Steve Kerr addressed the media, focusing on the team’s dynamics and the development of young players, including Brandin Podziemski. Kerr acknowledged Podziemski’s ambition but noted that it sometimes leads to overreaching on the court.
Kerr highlighted the distinct playing styles of new team members, particularly Kristaps Porzingis and Jimmy Butler. He pointed out that Porzingis excels in the mid and low post, often turning to shoot mid-range jump shots and drawing fouls. In contrast, Butler frequently drives to the rim, making playmaking decisions based on defensive reactions. The Warriors must adjust their spacing to accommodate these different approaches.
In discussing Podziemski, Kerr stated, “He’s a player who has impacted winning for us for three years and I think that will continue.” While he commended Podziemski’s ambition, he also cautioned that the player is still learning to navigate his role in the league.
As the season progresses, Kerr noted that Podziemski’s growing pains have been evident, particularly when star players like Stephen Curry and Butler are unavailable. The young guard’s ability to complement the team is crucial, and Kerr emphasized the need for Podziemski to adopt a more humble approach.
Podziemski’s performance has been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike. Despite some inconsistencies, he holds the highest Effective Field Goal Percentage in the league for shots taken with 0 to 4 seconds remaining on the shot clock at 58.3%. Kerr expressed hope that Podziemski can refine his skills over the summer, suggesting that playing pick-up games would benefit him significantly.
The Warriors are focused on the final stretch of the season, aiming for a playoff spot. Kerr emphasized the importance of defense, transition offense, and ball security as the team prepares for their upcoming games. The coach signaled optimism following a refresh during the All-Star Break but acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly with Curry’s ongoing recovery from injury.
Curry did not participate in practice on February 20 and is expected to undergo further evaluation. Kerr stated, “It’s rather critical” to have Curry healthy for a successful playoff run. The team remains committed to maintaining a competitive edge while navigating the absence of key players.
Looking ahead, the Warriors aim to secure a top-six seed in the playoffs, although Kerr tempered expectations based on current standings. “It’s still a goal, for sure,” he remarked, indicating that the team will continue to push for improvement as they head into the final third of the season.
As the Warriors adapt to their new lineup and continue to develop their younger players, the team’s journey will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, particularly the growth of players like Podziemski. Kerr’s leadership and the team’s resilience will be put to the test as they strive for postseason success.
