As the Golden State Warriors navigate through a tumultuous 2023-24 season, rumors have begun to swirl around the future of Andrew Wiggins. The former No. 1 overall pick, hailed as a 2022 All-Star and Finals hero, finds himself at the center of trade speculations.
Tim Kawakami of The Athletic reports that despite Andrew Wiggins’ “foundational six” status under coach Steve Kerr, his diminished performance might lead the Golden State Warriors to consider trade options.
Andrew Wiggins’ Struggles: A Season of Lows
Andrew Wiggins is enduring what many are calling the worst statistical season of his career. With career-lows in points (12.6 PPG), assists (1.3), and steals (0.3), his role within the team has become increasingly questioned. Despite a recent uptick in performance, where he averaged nearly 15 points in the last 14 games, the overall impact remains lackluster. His on-court/off-court statistics paint a grim picture, with the Warriors being outscored by 98 points across his 718 minutes on the court.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Rise: A Silver Lining
In stark contrast, Jonathan Kuminga, in his third year, is experiencing the best season of his career. He has consistently delivered, marking 11 straight games with double-digit points and boasting a net rating of 1.8. His burgeoning talent and cost-effective contract pose a significant consideration for the Warriors’ front office, especially with the February 8 trade deadline looming.
Andrew Wiggins defense in the 2022 finals was special. pic.twitter.com/z8QPp7te6X
— jose ☔️ (@KlayForTrey) December 30, 2023
The NBA 2023 Trade Deadline: Should the Golden State Warriors Trade Andrew Wiggins or Jonathan Kuminga?
The Warriors face a challenging decision. They must balance the financial implications and on-court dynamics between Wiggins and Kuminga. Kawakami notes that squeezing both talents into a limited rotation might not yield the best results. The fact that the Warriors have been outscored by 23.2 points per 100 possessions when Wiggins and Kuminga share the court further complicates matters.
Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for Golden State Warriors
As the trade deadline approaches, the Golden State Warriors stand at a critical juncture. The decision to keep Wiggins, opt for Kuminga, or perhaps find a way to harmonize both players’ talents will significantly shape the team’s future. With a dynasty reputation to uphold and a season teetering on the brink, Golden State’s management faces a decision that will reverberate throughout the league.
