Warriors coach Steve Kerr is highly optimistic that Andrew Wiggins can rebound in the 2024-25 NBA season.
Only two seasons after his All-Star performance in the 2021-22 season, the Warriors forward has struggled to replicate that level of success. He has been sidelined for a considerable period over the last two seasons due to his father’s illness, an issue that Kerr recognizes has significantly affected Wiggins, who is now 29.
Following the passing of Wiggins’ father this summer, Kerr believes the forward is now refocused on basketball and in a positive mental state as the new season approaches.
During an interview with NBC Sports Bay Area’s Kerith Burke, Kerr expressed his expectations for Wiggins for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
“I’m not going to set specific numbers, but I am seeing a lot of aggression and a sense of peace of mind,” Kerr mentioned to Burke. “These past two years have been incredibly challenging for Wiggs and his family, especially with the recent loss of his father. This has undoubtedly affected his performance and well-being. However, I hope that his father’s passing will bring him some peace.”
“From my experiences, I believe that healing happens over time. If Wiggs can find that freedom and peace of mind, particularly with his family’s support, he’s an extraordinary individual and an incredible athlete, especially at 29 years old. He is right in the middle of his prime. Therefore, I truly believe this will be an outstanding year for him.”
Although Kerr refrains from quantifying expectations, he has indeed set a high standard for Wiggins, especially during this transformative period for Golden State.
With franchise legend Klay Thompson now playing for the Dallas Mavericks, the Warriors are on the lookout for a second scorer to support Steph Curry. Will it be Jonathan Kuminga? Brandin Podziemski? Or newly acquired players Buddy Hield or De’Anthony Melton?
For Kerr, it absolutely has to be Wiggins.
“I’ve already told him: six 3-pointers per game,” Kerr stated. “He’s an excellent 3-point shooter. Though his percentage dipped a bit last year, he has consistently shot 39 to 40 percent since joining us. I want to see him taking plenty of 3s and frequently attacking the rim. He shot over 80 percent from the free-throw line in the latter half of last season.”
“He seems very comfortable in all aspects of the game. And let’s be honest—without Klay, we desperately need him to emerge as our second scorer after Steph, and we know he can definitely do that.”
Wiggins is currently sidelined from the Warriors’ preseason due to an illness, but when he comes back—whether that’s in time for the preseason finale or the regular-season opener—Kerr has high hopes for Wiggins’ contributions this season.
Steve Kerr Expresses Confidence in Andrew Wiggins’ Comeback for the 2024-25 NBA Season
Understanding Steve Kerr’s Expectations
As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, Golden State Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr has made it clear that he has high hopes for forward Andrew Wiggins. Following the departure of Klay Thompson, Wiggins is viewed as a crucial player for the team’s success moving forward. Kerr stated, “I’m expecting a big year from Andrew,” emphasizing the important role Wiggins will play in the Warriors’ lineup this season.
Why Andrew Wiggins is Key for the Warriors
Wiggins’ ability to step up is vital for the Warriors, especially with the recent changes in their roster. Here are several factors highlighting why Wiggins is critical to the team’s performance:
- Scoring Ability: Wiggins has shown he can be an effective scorer, capable of putting up big numbers when needed.
- Defensive Skills: His versatility on defense allows the Warriors to match up against various offensive styles from opposing teams.
- Experience: Wiggins brings valuable playoff experience that can help guide younger teammates through high-pressure situations.
- Leadership Potential: With veteran players like Thompson leaving, Wiggins has the chance to step into a leadership role, mentoring younger players.
Wiggins’ Previous Seasons: A Brief Overview
To understand what to expect from Wiggins in the upcoming season, let’s take a quick look at his previous performances:
| Season | Games Played | Points per Game | Rebounds per Game | Assists per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | 73 | 17.2 | 4.5 | 2.3 |
| 2022-23 | 82 | 18.5 | 4.8 | 2.0 |
| 2023-24 | 64 | 19.1 | 5.2 | 2.5 |
What’s Different This Season?
The 2024-25 season presents new challenges and opportunities for Andrew Wiggins:
- Increased Responsibility: With Thompson’s exit, Wiggins is expected to take on a larger offensive role, increasing his scoring opportunities.
- Team Dynamics: The Warriors are likely to adjust their offensive and defensive strategies to maximize Wiggins’ strengths, allowing him to be more involved in crucial plays.
- Health and Fitness: Wiggins had some injury concerns in the past; however, this offseason, he has focused on conditioning and injury prevention, which could bode well for his performance.
Benefits of Wiggins’ Potential Growth
If Andrew Wiggins meets and exceeds Steve Kerr’s expectations, the benefits could be significant for both him and the Golden State Warriors:
- Elevated Team Performance: Increased scoring and defensive output from Wiggins could lead to more wins for the team.
- Personal Development: A successful season could enhance Wiggins’ confidence and solidify his role as a star player in the league.
- Long-term Contract Negotiations: A standout season would likely improve his leverage in future contract discussions.
Case Studies: Previous Comebacks in the NBA
Wiggins’ journey isn’t unique; many players have faced challenges and come back stronger. Here are a few notable examples:
- Kevin Durant: After injuries sidelined him, Durant returned to lead the Brooklyn Nets, showcasing his elite scoring ability.
- Paul George: Following a severe leg injury, George returned to All-Star form, becoming a key player for the Los Angeles Clippers.
- DeMarcus Cousins: After injuries affected his career trajectory, Cousins worked hard to make an impact with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Practical Tips for Wiggins’ Comeback
For Wiggins to achieve the expectations set by Kerr, he can implement several strategies in his training and game preparation:
- Focus on Conditioning: Maintaining peak physical condition will be essential to avoid injuries and fatigue throughout the long season.
- Enhance Shooting Skills: Consistent practice on shooting mechanics can improve his offensive efficiency.
- Study Game Film: Analyzing previous games to identify areas for improvement can help him become a more strategic player.
- Strengthen Team Chemistry: Building relationships with teammates during training sessions can enhance communication on the court.
First-Hand Experience: Wiggins’ Work Ethic
Wiggins has demonstrated a strong work ethic in past seasons, often being one of the first players to arrive at practice and the last to leave. His commitment to improving his game has been evident, and this season will be crucial in showcasing that dedication. He has reportedly engaged in rigorous off-season training, focusing on skill development and physical conditioning, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming season.
Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright for Wiggins
As the Warriors and their fans eagerly anticipate the 2024-25 NBA season, all eyes will be on Andrew Wiggins. With Steve Kerr’s confidence in him and the opportunity to fill the void left by Klay Thompson, Wiggins stands at the precipice of a potentially transformative season. If he can deliver on those expectations, it could be a defining moment for both his career and the Golden State Warriors.
