Every NBA team’s hope and dreams are to have their roster fully healthy heading into the final stretch of the season. However, for Andrew Wiggins and the Golden State Warriors that might not be an option. The Warriors haven’t been given a timetable for the return of the key role player.
“That’s the hope,” Coach Steve Kerr stated when asked if Wiggins is expected back at some point this season.
Wiggins has not played since Feb. 13, he missed the final game before the NBA All-Star break due to some family matters. He has not returned since. The Warriors have expressed support, but have otherwise kept quiet about the issue.
“We’re giving him his space, as we’ve talked about, as he deals with something that’s way more important than a game,” Kerr said. “If he’s able to come back, that would be great. And if not, then that’s the case. Whatever happens, we’ll handle it accordingly.”
While the Warriors do expect the 28-year-old forward back before the playoffs, there’s a chance he may not be ready to go by that time. In Wiggins’ absence, Donte DiVincenzo has been inserted into the starting lineup with Klay Thompson moving to small forward. The team’s bench is shorthanded at the wing with Gary Payton II still not ready to play after being acquired at the trade deadline and two-way player Anthony Lamb ineligible after reaching his 50-game limit.
A season ago, Andrew Wiggins played a vital role in the Warriors’ championship run. He averaged 16.5 points and 7.5 rebounds in 22 playoff games. Though, this season, Wiggins has only played in a total of 37 games due to injuries and illness in December and January.
“Wiggs is my brother,” Jordan Poole said. “We’re giving him strength and all of the support that he needs and whenever he’s ready to come back, whenever he’s ready to join the team, he will. … He knows that we all have his back and he can take as much time as he needs and we’re all really good support system and wish him nothing but the best.”
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