James Wiseman Playing Full-Contact at Summer League Practices
The biggest issue the Warriors had according to both fans and detractors last season, was the lack of a true center. Kevon Looney apparently heard the noise, and put up a performance fit for somebody four inches taller than him: Despite the implication that the Dubs couldn’t match up with the size of other teams in the West, they managed to win a ring without a player over 6’9 tall on their active roster for the playoffs.
So, it stands to reason that a true 7-footer would probably bolster their lineup, especially if that center is on a rookie contract and already on the team.
It was reported that James Wiseman, the #2 overall pick out of Memphis in the 2020 NBA Draft, has been participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages. He’s expected by most to make some appearances at the Las Vegas Summer League, alongside Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga. While 3rd-year players usually don’t participate in Summer League, Wiseman’s full season out for injury has made this a necessary step in getting him back to the court.
As there has always been, people have placed doubt that Wiseman is A) ready to go or anywhere near it, and B) that he looks as good as some beat writers and reporters have said he does. While the footage from the Summer League squad’s practices is limited, what we’ve heard so far is that his touch looks better, and his shot is growing more consistent. The more work he puts in on the individual skills, the more he’ll be able to make them second-nature and instead focus on things like defensive rotations and other instincts he already has or is developing.
Wiseman’s draft reports painted him as an athletic specimen with physical tools that pointed to high upside as a rim-runner, but his quick feet and touch were likely what brought the Warriors’ attention to him. He has a very high ceiling in terms of skill and general potential, reminiscent of Joel Embiid in terms of what he can reach. His shooting touch, while not spectacular in his games played so far, is noticeable, with good mechanics to suggest more upside on that.
With more minutes freed up in the rotation, it will be interesting to see how the Warriors choose to integrate him into the lineup. He will likely have a primary role on the Summer League squad based on how the training staff evaluates his readiness, but as he’s shown flashes before, there’s plenty to be excited about now that Big Jim is finally looking healthy and ready to go.
(Photo credit: Golden State Warriors)