James Wiseman is going to add an interesting wrinkle to the defending champs. What are the Golden State Warriors expecting from him, truthfully?
Naturally, Wiseman entered the NBA with sky-high expectations. He was the No. 2 pick in the draft and was projected as the top player in his class before a collegiate career that was abruptly cut short.
In his rookie season, Wiseman looked like a prospect who had played only three games in college. That is to say, the inexperience was glaring.
Botched rotations, overzealous attempts to block shots and an eagerness, along with ill-timing, led to foul trouble early and often for the young seven-footer.
The flashes of potential were bright. Every now and then, Wiseman would crash the glass for a monstrous putback or wack an opponent’s shot into the third row.
Overall? His rookie season left much to be desired.
After not playing at all in his sophomore year, Wiseman returned to basketball in Las Vegas.
I wish I could say he looked noticeably better.
James Wiseman hasn’t given the Golden State Warriors any reason to have ultra-high expectations entering the 2022-23 NBA season.
Many of the same problems continued to plague Wiseman. Foul trouble. Poor instincts. All issues that will not be resolved until he gets more reps under his belt.
With that key point being made, how much more time does Wiseman need? That’s the question everyone in Golden State is wondering.
Wiseman can be thankful for one thing: the Dubs do not him.
He has a luxury that most floundering lottery picks usually don’t get. His team won a title without him playing a single minute. His role is simple and he is entering the year with the potential to put them over the top — without the risk of costing them everything if he fails.
Still, Wiseman would deliver a harsh blow to this team if he isn’t ready to compete. All he really needs to do is look competent on defense, which is something he has shown to be capable of.
So if you’re looking for fair expectations to put on the young center, I’d say being a rotational player who continues to take steps forward is about all you can reasonably ask for. Anything more is a cherry on top — anything less is a disappointment.