Realistic comparison: Donte DiVincenzo
The range feels narrow for Bradin Podziemski. He is not going to be a superstar, but his craft and scoring ability should allow him to quickly see the court and be a steady role player for the next decade-plus.
Golden State Warriors assistant general manager Larry Harris compared Podziemski to Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo. He does not have Brunson’s All-Star upside, but there are similarities between the offensive game of the two lefties. It feels like DiVincenzo is the better comp.
Both players are 6’4 and 200 pounds with a 6’6 wingspan and an eight-foot standing reach. DiVincenzo helped Villanova win two NCAA championships in college, and he too worked his way into a larger role by improving his playmaking and jumper. The Wildcats played a much tougher schedule, but DiVincenzo shot 48.1 percent from the field and over 40 percent on his threes.
Podziemski is a better shooter, but DiVincenzo is the superior athlete. After five NBA seasons, DiVincenzo averages 9.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.2 steals in 24.3 minutes. The 20-year-old profiles as a worse defender, but his jumper will create plenty of opportunities.
The Golden State Warriors could look at Podziemski as a Donte DiVincenzo replacement. The 26-year-old could decline his $4.7 million player option and move on in free agency. The Dubs would have the rookie ready to fill in off the bench.