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With 11 Hand Surgeries in 19 Seasons, Chris Paul Faces Major Setback; 20YO Warriors Rookie Poised to Replace the 12X All-Star

Published 01/07/2024, 3:58 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The Golden State Warriors who were not able to find their rhythm this season now encounter another problem. Their recent veteran signing Chris Paul suffered an injury and has undergone surgery to repair a fracture in his left hand, a source revealed to ESPN. Currently, the Warriors are 10th as per the Western Conference standings, with a record of seventeen wins and eighteen losses.

Now, as Paul is going to be out for weeks, he is going to be replaced by the 20-year-old rookie guard Brandin Podziemski. However, who is this rookie and how many weeks will the 12x All-Star be out of action?

Brandin Podziemski is to take over from Chris Paul

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Chris Paul was acquired in the summer by the Golden State Warriors in a trade with the Washington Wizards. Since then he has been averaging 8.9 points and 7.2 assists in 27.6 minutes per game this season. But in a match against the Detriot Pistons, the 38-year-old guard injured his hand and will have to undergo surgery. However, being in the NBA for 19 seasons, Paul has undergone multiple surgeries. He has had five surgeries on his left hand and six on his right. And with this one, he will be out of action for four to six weeks.

USA Today via Reuters

Taking his place will be the rookie guard, Brandin Podziemski. His addition to the Warriors’ rotation comes at a critical time for the team, which is navigating a challenging Western Conference. The rookie, who has shown potential in limited minutes, will now have the opportunity to make a bigger impression and establish himself as a key addition to the squad. Podziemski is known for his attacking attributes and versatility on the court, which makes him a threat to his opponents. With the limited playing time he has received, he averaged 9.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.

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Now, due to the void left by Paul, the Warriors will have to shift strategies and make changes according to their new addition. Although Paul’s expertise and leadership cannot be overlooked, Podziemski’s arrival may offer a new dynamic to the team, as well as opportunities for growth and development. However, with the bad news of Paul’s injury, the Warriors received a piece of good news as well. The veteran forward Draymond Green will be joining the team next week.

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Draymond Green finally completes his suspension

After the physical altercation with the Phoenix Suns star Jusuf Nurkic, Draymond Green received a 12-game suspension. Now after serving his punishment, the 4x All-Star is making his comeback into the Warriors’ squad. With him respected to make a comeback in tonight’s game against the Toronto Raptors, the NBA emphasized Green’s commitment to upholding behavior guidelines.

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The 33-year-old attended therapy sessions and discussions with NBA, Warriors, and NBAPA representatives, with further meetings planned during the season. Currently, he is averaging 9.7 points, 5.8 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game and not looking in great shape, but with his comeback can he change the trajectory of the Warriors? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch this Story: Chris Paul Annihilates Scott Foster After Controversial Call:“Don’t Use a Tech to Get Your Point Across

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Written by:

Dhruv Shastry

720Articles

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Edited by:

Ruth John