3 Reasons Golden State Warriors are severely short-staffed

By Tony Pesta | May 6, 2021

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 01: Stephen Curry #30 checks on James Wiseman #33 of the Golden State Warriors after Wiseman injured himself during the fourth quarter of their game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Chase Center on January 01, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/undefined) /

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Golden State Warriors: James Wiseman wasn’t ready, anyways

It was unfortunate to see James Wiseman’s rookie season with the Golden State Warriors come to such an abrupt end. The No. 2 overall pick has been ruled out for the remainder of the year with a meniscus injury in his right knee.

Even if Wiseman was healthy and ready to play — I’m not sure if it would have made much of a difference. Aside from gaining valuable playoff experience (which of course, has its worth), the Dubs would not have benefitted much from Wiseman.

The young center struggled frequently throughout his rookie season. The learning curve is steep for players with such little experience and Wiseman was no exception, averaging just 11.5 points and 5.8 rebounds.

This isn’t to take away from the potential he flashed periodically. Wiseman can still blossom into a prolific rim-running center due to his raw athleticism and freakish build. I feel confident Wiseman was the correct pick for the Dubs, but he probably wouldn’t have fixed any of their upcoming issues regardless of if he was healthy or not this season.

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