It is no surprise that an unexpected Warrior has made it as a candidate for the All-Star team. The Dubs fanbase is extremely strong. The Golden State Warriors have a global fanbase and love to support their players. Wiggins currently ranks 9th in western conference forwards with 264,781 votes.
So why exactly is Andrew Wiggins getting so much support?
Andrew Wiggins has shined for the Golden State Warriors and earned All-Star recognition by being in the top 10 for frontcourt voting.
Here’s why:
As of now, the Warriors are 0.5 a game back of the 8th-seed. Wiggins has helped propel the Warriors to a much better defensive team than expected. He is averaging a career-high 1.4 blocks per game while holding the opposition to a 38.4 field goal percentage.
Wiggins’ defense has been a major surprise this season. Last season, he held the opposition to a much higher 48.7 percentage. He’s improved mightily.
To put his defensive efforts into perspective, Wiggins has held these players for a combined 12-45 FG (26.6%): McCollum, Antetokounmpo, Kawhi, Durant, Lillard, DeRozan, Middleton, Mitchell, and Irving.
He is slowing down opposing superstars and helping his team stay in close games against contending teams.
Of course, Stephen Curry is leading in offensive production, but Wiggins has done his job in supporting a one-rounded offense. He’s knocked down a career-high 38.5 3P% and a career-high 46.7 FG%.
Wiggins’ stellar play on both ends of the floor has been a pleasure to watch thus far. Although I don’t expect Wiggins to make the All-Star team, at least he is being recognized for his improvement in play.
If he keeps his defensive play up, don’t be surprised if he sneaks onto an All-Defensive team. For now, let’s be happy that Wiggins has revitalized his career in Golden State and is beginning to earn the All-Star recognition we all thought he would back when he was the No. 1 overall pick.