Golden State Warriors NBA Draft: Key prospects missing combine

The NBA Draft process just became more difficult for the Golden State Warriors as some key prospects will miss the virtual combine.

Analyzing this upcoming NBA Draft was going to be difficult for the Golden State Warriors regardless of how the combine took place as coronavirus shortened the NCAA season and put an end to most prospect’s final chance to prove themselves.

Anyone who competed in college had their season end abruptly, ruining any opportunity for a last-ditch effort to raise their draft stock. Meanwhile, many of the other top prospects like LaMelo Ball, Killian Hayes, Deni Avdija and R.J. Hampton competed in a different league overseason. Even the Memphis commit, James Wiseman, only appeared in 3 games before controversy ended his sample size.

This puts a heavy strain on the Warriors to pick the best player. However, this process will now be more difficult as a few key names are planning on missing the NBA’s virtual draft combine.

Shams Charania reported that Wiseman, Anthony Edwards and Obi Toppin will not be participating in the combine. This is a tough blow, specifically for the Dubs, who are interested in both Edwards and Wiseman.

In particular, not having a chance to watch Wiseman workout before the draft will hurt the most. His time in college was so short that the Dubs really don’t have enough intel to warrant drafting him with the No. 2 overall pick. This all but solidifies they won’t be taking a chance on Wiseman.

As for Edwards, the Warriors entered the draft with him at the top of their wishlist. As recent rumors state the Minnesota Timberwolves are considering trading the first overall pick – a path to taking Edwards has opened up.

It feels likely that if Edwards falls to the Warriors, the franchise would select him. His potential as a two-way star is enough to convince the Dubs into drafting him.