In a devastating turn of events during the Golden State Warriors’ preseason finale against the LA Clippers at Chase Center on Friday, October 18, 2025, critical guard Brandin Podziemski suffered a concerning non-contact injury that has left fans and analysts holding their breath. The Warriors, already trailing 42-30 midway through the second quarter, now face the possibility of entering the 2025-26 NBA regular season without one of their key starters.
According to Brett Siegel of HoopsHype, Podziemski was diagnosed with a left hip contusion after collapsing during the game. The third-year shooting guard, who stepped into the small forward role due to Jimmy Butler’s absence with an ankle injury, played just 6:42 before exiting. In that limited time, Podziemski contributed three points on a single three-point attempt, secured two rebounds, and posted a -9 plus-minus. His status for the remainder of the game remains uncertain, with no clear timeline for his return as of this writing.
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The injury occurred in a non-contact play, raising immediate concerns about its severity and potential implications for Podziemski’s availability at the start of the regular season. A left hip contusion, while not always season-ending, can be a tricky injury to manage, potentially sidelining the young guard for an extended period if complications arise. The Warriors’ medical staff is likely conducting further evaluations to determine the full extent of the damage.
Meanwhile, the Warriors struggled to keep pace with the Clippers in the first half. Superstar point guard Stephen Curry led the team with seven points on 2-of-6 field goal attempts (1-of-3 from beyond the arc) and a perfect 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. Curry also added two assists and a rebound, but the team’s overall performance was lackluster. On the other side, Clippers’ new free agent acquisition Bradley Beal shined, dropping 10 points on an efficient 5-of-9 shooting, along with two rebounds and a block.
Podziemski’s injury adds to the Warriors’ challenges as they head into a highly competitive Western Conference season. With Butler already nursing an ankle injury, the team’s depth is being tested early. The loss of Podziemski, a rising star known for his versatility and hustle, could force Golden State to rely more heavily on their bench or adjust their rotations significantly.
As the Warriors await further updates on Podziemski’s condition, the fanbase is left grappling with uncertainty. Will this injury derail the team’s momentum before the season even begins? Stay tuned for more details as this story develops.