The Golden State Warriors' start against the Brooklyn Nets was far from ideal.
Wrapping up their five-game road trip, the Warriors were looking to capture a second victory in the Big Apple before returning to the Bay Area.
While Stephen Curry put together a classic in Madison Square Garden against the New York Knicks, it took a strong second half to do so.
If the Warriors don't find a new gear before long, they may need to lean on another big-time game from the superstar guard.
To make matters worse, with a 5-0 start from the Nets, key guard Brandin Podziemski -- who is emerging as of late -- left the game in crucial pain within the first two minutes of the contest.
The Warriors wing was playing defense before holding his lower back and heading straight for the locker room.
Nov 10, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski (2) reacts to an officials call after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter at Paycom Center. © Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images © Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Warriors get unfortunate Podziemski news in Nets game
While the Warriors are currently finding form, they've dealt with some ticky-tacky injuries here and there, along with Jonathan Kuminga being sidelined for two months with an ankle injury.
The Athletic's Anthony Slater reported that Podziemski went straight to the locker room.
"Brandin Podziemski is leaving the game in pain in Brooklyn in the first minute tonight. Grabbing at his lower back. Called to the bench and walked to the locker room," Slater shared on X.
Brandin Podziemski is leaving the game in pain in Brooklyn in the first minute tonight. Grabbing at his lower back. Called to the bench and walked to the locker room.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) March 7, 2025
Again, Podziemski's injury seemed more like a non-contact issue, which could be concerning for Golden State as they move forward.
The Warriors will have an early deficit to dig out of, and they will need to lean into their guard depth to do so -- especially when Curry hits the bench for a rest.
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This story was originally published March 6, 2025 at 4:54 PM.