What Warriors Fans Can Expect From James Wiseman Upon Injury Return
On April 10, 2021, James Wiseman went up for a dunk attempt after rolling to the basket versus the Houston Rockets and landed awkwardly, tearing his right meniscus, and ending his rookie season.
He finished his rookie season with averaging 11.5 points and 5.8 rebounds in 21.4 minutes. His Per 36 numbers were more impressive though, finishing with 19.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 1.6 blocks and an average of 4.7 points per 100 possessions.
The Golden State Warriors finished the 2020-2021 regular season with a 39-33 overall record and went 14-5 during the 19 games without Wiseman. This stretch included a six-game win streak with impressive wins over the Utah Jazz and the Phoenix Suns.
During that 14-5 stretch, the Golden State Warriors featured a starting lineup of Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, Kent Bazemore, Draymond Green and Kevon Looney. The Warriors found much success thanks to the steady veteran presence of Looney and the impact of Green as the familiar small-ball center.
To say that Wiseman had a rough rookie season is an understatement. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the usual summer league showcase was canceled, and with a shortened training camp and preseason due to his own bout with Covid-19, it wasn’t long before Wiseman was thrown into the deep end.
Even though Wiseman struggled during his rookie year, he has shown flashes of his greatness. One of his best games came from a 20-point performance in a win versus the Spurs on Jan. 20, 2021. During this game, Wiseman showed his potential as a passing big and extremely lethal finisher. One of his four assists came from a horns set with Curry and Wiseman setting the two ball screens, and Wiseman quickly making the early read and zipped a fastball to a cutting Green who finished the easy layup. As for his finishing ability, all 20 of his points came from a variety of dunks as he was prepared for the drop-off pass and finished easily with the defense scrambling.
The Warriors have always stressed the importance of sharing the ball and have found success through big men who were willing to pass at a high and efficient rate. Towering over the competition at 7’0”, Wiseman can see over the defense and make the easy pass. Additionally, not only is Wiseman a great passer, but he’s also a willing passer. Wiseman finished his rookie season with a total of 26 assists.
Another impact that Wiseman could have is with his three-point shot. During his rookie year, Wiseman shot a total of 12/38 from three, shooting at a 31% clip. While these numbers are limited, it shows the potential and importance of having a stretch big within the Warriors motion offense.
In a game versus the Timberwolves on Jan. 27, 2021, Wiseman nailed three three-pointers, with all three coming from the motion of the offense. While Wiseman would sometimes force threes, the shot selection has gotten better. Two of the three threes came from a step-up screen, a play that’s normally run for guards. The third three was a swish from the corner, which was a drive and kick created from Kelly Oubre. As the great Jim Barnett always says, “A shot created must be taken.” And Wiseman shot it with confidence.
Overall, a rejuvenated and healthy Wiseman can make a great impact for the Warriors on the offensive side. While Wiseman works his way back from injury, Warriors fans can expect Wiseman to return with a better-developed jump shot, elite finishing, and passing ability to help the offense.
(Photo credit: Sarah Stier / Getty Images)