The Return of James Wiseman Is Almost Here
The former 2nd overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft is now expected to make his return to the basketball court in early March (possibly as soon as next week), according to Dieter Kurtenbach of the Locked on Warriors Podcast. Wiseman hasn’t played in a game this season as he has been recovering from his torn meniscus injury that he suffered over 10 months ago.
Last week, James was advanced to 5-on-5 scrimmaging with the Warriors which is a major sign that he is extremely close to being back on the floor for some real NBA action. It has also been said that he will “most likely” be starting out by playing in the G-League with the Santa Cruz Warriors before he makes his way up to the big club. A smart move for a second-year player who hasn’t seen any minutes in almost a full calendar year.
After his 5-on-5 scrimmaging, James Wiseman was asked in a media presser how he can help the Warriors right now during this season. "Whatever coach needs me to do, like go out there, run the floor, block shots, get rebounds, and just do the simple stuff. I'm not tryna go out there and do no extra stuff. Just do the simple stuff and play my role."
In his rookie campaign, James Wiseman averaged 11.5 PPG and 5.8 APG in 39 games played. His development in his second-year has been put on a long hold but his return to the court in the coming weeks couldn’t come at a better time for the Warriors. As they near the postseason, Golden State needs more size at the rim as well as another threat in the pick-and-roll action. Wiseman can bring that to the table plus much more.
There will be no doubt some growing pains in the beginning for Wiseman. He will serve as the back-up center to Kevon Looney which is a perfect situation for him as he gradually ramps up his minutes over time, getting more and more comfortable with each stint.
All fans should ask out of him for the rest of the 2021-2022 season and the chase to bring another championship to the Bay Area is to go out there, try his hardest, and play the role that is asked of him out of Steve Kerr.
Follow Arden Cravalho on Twitter @a_cravalho.
(Photo credit: Getty)