Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball, James Wiseman, Tyrese Haliburton, and Obi Toppin. These are some top names that are ready to receive the earliest picks as soon as the NBA Draft 2020 kicks off. Timberwolves, Warriors, and Hornets would like to sign the best from these prospects so they leave no big shark for the others to own.
Discussing specifically the curious case of Golden State Warriors, they seem more interested in James Wiseman than any other name. The 6-time champion franchise would love to give a center boost to their already strong lineup of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson. But how good is Wiseman? Is he Joel Embiid good or Chris Bosh good?
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A former NBA All-star weighs Wiseman against Chris Bosh
4-time NBA All-star and 2-time NBA first-team member, Penny Hardaway played for 14 years in the NBA. Presently, he is serving as a College Basketball Coach and knows about the draft prospects in and out. In an interview, he spoke really highly of the 19-YO James Wiseman.
He exclaimed, “Parts of his game remind me of Chris Bosh. I know that’s a stretch for a lot of people. But when I see him, the way he’s been able to work his way out to the 3-point line, there are similarities to Bosh. But he’s way more athletic.”
Now, this is a huge compliment, given the credentials that CB4 secured since the very beginning of his career. Chris averaged 11.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in his rookie year itself. He also shot at 35.7% from the downtown, which he further improved. One must take note that Wiseman is also very strong at his defense. He has almost the same, or even more dominating physique with his 7’1” 240 lbs body.
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James can be the perfect choice for the Warriors
If the Warriors do not travel on the trade route, James Wiseman will be the best option for them to consider. Mr. Hardaway has seen James Wiseman grow up to become a player he is today. He believes that James brings in a package of top-level athleticism, floor speed, unforgiving defense, and someone who is good at both ends.
The coach further added, “He is determined to protect that rim and do it on a nightly basis. I’m not saying he’s going to score 15 or 20 points a game, but I’m going to say he’ll protect that rim and rebound the ball every night.”
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Wiseman’s freshman season was shortened due to certain implications. His playmaking ability and shooting prowess are yet to see a lot of improvement, but he shows every sign of growing at flash speed. The Warriors will be certainly benefitted, as James can do wonders under the coachmanship of Steve Kerr.
The Minnesota Timberwolves can harm their ambitions if they sign him first, but chances are good that the Warriors will adopt him if they find no other deal.