Golden State Warriors player that should make jump: James Wiseman
This one is obvious, but 20-year-old James Wiseman, the team’s No. 2 overall pick from the 2020 NBA Draft, needs to show improvement.
While he played well as a rookie and even had a similar rookie season to that of Chris Bosh, Wiseman really didn’t convince many of his superstar upside. He averaged 11.5 points per game and shot 52 percent from the field.
His work as a defense was typically underwhelming, averaging 5.2 fouls per 36 minutes. He also didn’t have a great showing as a rim protector, notching under a block per game. However, following three games at Memphis, it was always going to take Wiseman time to adjust.
A successful second season for Wiseman will be determined by what he can do defensively, especially with that guard trio and Andrew Wiggins leading the way offensively.
If he can top 54 percent from the field and also hit over 1.5 blocks per game, Wiseman will solidify his long-term role on the roster. With limited frontcourt players, the Warriors need Wiseman to step up in order to contend for a title.