Andrew Wiggins has been often referred to as the perfect addition to the Golden State Warriors. Head coach Steve Kerr is elated with him though not all people are buying it. Most know how he spoke highly of D’Angelo Russell before the former top pick was eventually traded (ironically for Wiggins). That said, there is reason to believe that the top pick of the 2014 NBA Draft could be moved as well.
When he joined the Warriors, there is no question that Wiggins showed he could play alongside Stephen Curry. But there remains a big obstacle ahead. The 25-year-old owns a hefty $148 million contract, something he signed last year when he was still with the Minnesota Timberwolves. With such big money tied to him, Wiggins needs to prove that he deserves every penny and fill up the needs of Kerr and the Dubs.
However, that amount of money is usually something that is paid to superstars. For Wiggins, he may be a star in his own right but not enough to justify being one of the top stars at the Warriors camp. He is one of the top four although he has yet to regularly play alongside Draymond Green and Klay Thompson.
For now, he could be relevant. But what happens once the regular stars are back? Surely he will have to adjust but he is unlikely to be the top dog for the Dubs. It would take a humongous effort for him.
This means that his average last season of 21.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 rebounds may not be enough to justify his salary. Hence, there is a chance that something may happen in the offseason. If he makes it to the 2020-21 NBA season, all eyes will be on him until the trade deadline.
Kerr giving Wiggins praise is not a gauge on how well Wiggins can be with the Dubs. Most know he has failed to meet expectations. But being with the right team could iron things out. The question in everyone’s mind right now is if Golden State is that team.
Anything can happen between now and next NBA season. It all depends on how the Dubs perform. If they can recall their old form with Wiggins proving valuable, he could stay. But for a player that holds a large chunk of the team budget, something may happen at some point. Wiggins will be under the radar. If he blinks, he could be dealt anew. But which team would want him with his ridiculously high contract?
