The Golden State Warriors are shaking things up for their Thursday night showdown against the Houston Rockets. After a tough loss to the shorthanded Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, head coach Steve Kerr is rolling out a fresh starting lineup. One of the most exciting changes? Brandin Podziemski will be stepping into the starting five, making his presence known in a high-stakes Western Conference battle.
With the Warriors coming off a disappointing performance, the team is looking to bounce back in a big way before heading into the All-Star break. The game against the Rockets is the second leg of a road back-to-back, and Kerr is banking on some adjustments to give the team a spark. One of the biggest shake-ups? Buddy Hield is moving out of the starting lineup after a rough outing against Dallas, making room for Podziemski, who has been making waves off the bench.
Podziemski Gets the Nod in the Starting Five
The rookie guard has been showing promise in recent games, and now he’ll get his chance to run with the starters. He’ll be joining forces with Steph Curry in the backcourt, alongside Jimmy Butler, Moses Moody, and Draymond Green. This mix of veterans and young talent could bring a new dynamic to the floor, especially with Podziemski’s high-energy playstyle.
Podziemski has already proven he can make an impact when given the opportunity. In Wednesday’s game against the Mavericks, he came off the bench and delivered an impressive performance, leading the team with a +13 plus/minus rating in 24 minutes. He contributed eight points, five assists, and two rebounds while shooting 4-of-9 from the field. His ability to make plays and provide stability in crucial moments has earned him a shot at the starting role.
Hield Struggles Against Dallas
On the flip side, Buddy Hield had a tough night against the Mavericks, and it likely played a role in Kerr’s decision to adjust the lineup. Hield managed just three points, struggling with his shot as he went 1-for-9 from the field. More concerning than his offensive woes, however, was his defensive performance. He was tasked with helping to guard Kyrie Irving, who absolutely torched the Warriors with a 42-point explosion. Hield finished the game with a team-worst -21 plus/minus rating, making it clear that something needed to change.
While Hield has had strong performances this season, consistency has been an issue. With the Warriors needing more energy and efficiency, Podziemski’s insertion into the lineup could be just what they need to turn things around.
A Crucial Matchup Before the All-Star Break
Thursday’s game against the Rockets isn’t just another regular-season matchup—it’s the last game before the All-Star break, and it’s a chance for the Warriors to head into the break on a high note. After a rollercoaster of a season so far, picking up a win before the short hiatus could help build momentum for the stretch run.
The Rockets, on the other hand, will be looking to capitalize on Golden State’s fatigue. Playing the second game of a back-to-back on the road is never easy, and Houston will be eager to take advantage of any sluggishness from the Warriors. With young stars like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun continuing to develop, the Rockets have the firepower to make this a competitive contest.
The Bigger Picture for Golden State
This lineup change isn’t just about one game—it’s about finding the right formula as the Warriors push toward the playoffs. At this stage of the season, Kerr is still experimenting with rotations, trying to strike the perfect balance between veteran leadership and young talent. With Draymond Green back in the mix, the team is looking to solidify its identity and establish a rhythm.
For Podziemski, this is a golden opportunity to prove that he deserves more minutes, not just as a stopgap but as a key part of the team’s future. If he delivers a strong performance, it could lead to even bigger responsibilities down the line. The Warriors have been searching for more consistency outside of their core stars, and if Podziemski can step up, he could cement himself as a crucial piece of the puzzle.
Tip-Off Time and What to Watch
The Warriors and Rockets will tip off at 5 p.m. PT on Thursday, and all eyes will be on how this new lineup performs. Some key storylines to keep an eye on:
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How will Podziemski handle the pressure of starting? His bench performances have been strong, but can he maintain that energy from the opening tip?
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Will Hield bounce back? Coming off a tough game, he’ll likely be looking to prove himself, whether that’s off the bench or in limited minutes.
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Can the Warriors’ defense step up? Irving exposed some major flaws in the last game—will they tighten things up against the Rockets?
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Fatigue factor: With this being the second game in two nights, will Golden State have the stamina to keep up with Houston’s young, athletic squad?
This game has all the makings of a thriller, and with a new lineup in place, it could be the spark the Warriors need to regain momentum. Whether Podziemski rises to the occasion or the Rockets take advantage of Golden State’s tired legs, one thing’s for sure: this matchup is a must-watch before the All-Star break.
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