Steve Kerr Takes Sudden Decision on Brandin Podziemski As Warriors Find Quick Fix to Brewing Problems

Steve Kerr just pulled a fast one—and it’s got Brandin Podziemski fans doing double takes. After starting most of the season and holding it down with poise beyond his years, Podz is heading to the bench for Game 6. In his place? Gary Payton II, the human full-court press.

This move screams playoff chess, not panic. Kerr’s clearly seen enough of the Rockets’ backcourt cooking, and he’s going full defense mode with Payton’s perimeter clamps. Don’t get it twisted—Podziemski’s been rock-solid. He’s smart, he rebounds like a big, and he rarely makes rookie mistakes. But tonight? It’s about physicality and grit.

With Steph, Buddy Hield, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, and now Payton in the starting five, this Warriors lineup is all about switching, scrapping, and stopping runs before they start. The message? We’re not giving Houston an inch.

For Podz, this ain’t a demotion—it’s a playoff adjustment. He’ll still get minutes, especially if Kerr needs a jolt of playmaking or some second-unit energy. But right now, it’s all hands on deck, and Kerr’s betting defense wins Game 6. Let’s see if it pays off—or if Podz has to remind everyone why he was in the starting lineup in the first place.

ongoing story…

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