Golden State Warriors NBA Draft: Anthony Edwards vs James Wiseman

Who fits the Golden State Warriors better? Let’s pin two NBA Draft prospects in Anthony Edwards and James Wiseman against each other.

The Golden State Warriors have some important decisions to make before the NBA Draft Lottery takes place on August 20. If they land the top pick, who will be their first choice? The two most likely candidates are Anthony Edwards and James Wiseman – but who earns top billing?

The two prospects have very different skill sets. For starters, Edwards is a 6’4″ guard while Wiseman is a skyscraping 7’1″ big man. Edwards can act as a third member of the Dubs All-Star backcourt while Wiseman offers a dynamic the dynasty has yet to posses in an elite center. Both have their benefits and downfalls.

Edwards is going to bring high-level scoring instantly to the Dubs. This isn’t anything new for the franchise but his approach to the game is a bit different than the Splash Brothers. Edwards makes his biggest impact in the paint where he is a fluent finisher around the rim – using his long arms and explosive athleticism to their fullest extent to dominant smaller opponents on the drive.

Similarly, Wiseman lives in the paint as well. However, Wiseman is primarily a defender – blocking 3.0 shots per game in his short stint with Memphis. He is going to deter opponents from scoring in the paint and will be the best rebounder the Warriors have had in years.

As for offense, Wiseman has some developing to do. He hasn’t yet shown to have a wide array of moves in the post and isn’t very effective outside of the paint. This will limit his ability to score with the Dubs – but his presence as a rim runner should get him plenty of looks regardless.

Meanwhile, Edwards has just as much potential on defense as he does on offense. His athleticism can work both ways – giving him the tools needed to be a great perimeter deterrent. His work ethic will need to improve but he can have a positive impact on this end of the floor.

Edwards is a bit restricted in his offensive attack. He isn’t much of a shooter and often chooses bad shots late in games. This is an area he will need to improve once he enters the league.

In terms of fit, Wiseman makes the most sense for the Dubs. But, Edwards appears to have a higher ceiling. Whatever the Warriors decide to do – their fate is safe in one of these prospect’s hands.