Golden State Warriors fans haven’t had a chance to see much so far James Wiseman in action. Injured in the meniscus, the second choice of the 2020 draft only played 39 matches in his short career. A situation that should work out this season.
Bob Myers, the General Manager of the Warriors, seems very optimistic regarding his pivot. Wiseman would thus have progressed both physically and technically. Excellent news one month before the start of the 2022-2023 financial year.
“I think the most encouraging thing is that since the Summer League he’s been improving every day. […] He continues to improve, which is really exciting, on the little things like space awareness, protecting the circle, finishing, shot selection, reading pick-and-rolls. […] It’s the first time the organization has seen him play on a regular basis without injury,” said Myers. au micro de Tim Kawakami de The Athletic.
At 21, James Wiseman has great potential. At the time of his draft, some experts even spoke of him as a possible future defender of the year. His physical profile, from the top of his 2.13 m and 2.28 m wingspan, has long been lacking in Golden State. The interior might make a real difference for the reigning NBA champions next season.
For the moment, Bob Myers is considering playing the pivot off the bench instead. Kevon Looney impressed a lot during the playoffs and should therefore retain its starting position.
“He plays a bit with Jordan Poole. Watching these two work together, I think we may have a potential second unit attack”assure the GM.
James Wiseman is clearly part of the Warriors’ long-term plans. He is one of the most important members of the “young core” of the franchise. A group notably composed of Poole (23 years old), Moses Moody (20) et Jonathan Kuminga (19).
So if he remains healthy, Myers sees no reason not to activate his player option for the 2023-24 season. Wiseman will therefore have two years to prove to Golden State that he is able to keep in shape and live up to expectations.
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