Despite James Wiseman Links, Warriors Legend Urges Team to Sign a Veteran Center

When the Golden State Warriors got the second pick during the Draft Lottery, fans thought they would draft a center. But as Draft Night gets closer, they seemed to have moved away from that initial objective.

Memphis sensation James Wiseman was heavily linked to the Warriors. But now there is a possibility that they go after LaMelo Ball instead. They would then have to hunt for a center in Free Agency, and former Warriors legend Chris Mullin believes that this is the right move.

“I think ideally, you’d like a seasoned veteran,” Mullin said. “Even if he played limited minutes during the regular season and you got him ready towards the last 30 games or so, I don’t know, Marc Gasol or someone like that, that you really could depend on in the playoffs.”

Drafted by the Warriors in 1985, Mullin played 12 seasons for them before leaving for the Pacers. He later came back for a final season before retiring in 2001. During his time with Golden State, Mullin was a five-time All-Star and a four-time All-NBA player. He is also considered some of the best shooters to play in the league.

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Will the Warriors go for youth or experience?

During their title seasons, the Warriors had Andrew Bogut, Zaza Pachulia, and JaVale McGee as their centers. So that position hasn’t been the most utilized one for them.

“Again, the Warriors have had tremendous success using that center position by committee and not necessarily being the main focus, but being a very important piece,” Mullin said.

But as they prepare for a battle against the Lakers and Anthony Davis especially, they need someone with experience over someone who is just entering the league. So undoubtedly, Wiseman can be a great project for the future. But a player like Gasol can help them immediately.

Gasol was reportedly close to signing for his hometown team, FC Barcelona. But now he is going to enter Free Agency and the Warriors will be eager to sign him. Along with experience, he can provide occasional outside shooting which will fit their system. So in two days, fans will find out if the Warriors will choose youth during the Draft or opt to go for experience when free agency starts.

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