The Golden State Warriors will be without forward Andrew Wiggins for their opening preseason game against the L.A. Clippers at the Stan Sheriff Center, a minor setback for the team. Wiggins, who has missed the first three days of training camp due to illness, was ruled out by head coach Steve Kerr, as reported by Kendra Andrews of ESPN.
Wiggins’ absence opens the door for the Warriors’ younger players, such as fourth-year forward Jonathan Kuminga, to potentially start in his place. Kuminga could fill the spot at the three, alongside Draymond Green and Trayce Jackson-Davis in the frontcourt. This would provide an early opportunity for Kuminga to showcase his abilities as the team works through different lineup combinations.
Wiggins is coming off the worst season of his career in 2023-24, where he averaged 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and shot 45.3% from the field and 35.8% from beyond the arc. Despite this slow start to the preseason, Kerr remains optimistic about Wiggins’ potential, noting that he is slated for an increased offensive role in the upcoming season following the departure of Klay Thompson. Kerr views Wiggins as capable of being a 20-point-per-game player and expects him to attempt 6-7 three-pointers per game.
Aside from Wiggins’ minor setback, the Warriors’ roster is otherwise healthy, leading to a competitive training camp for positions and playing time. So far, Kerr has confirmed only Stephen Curry and Draymond Green as guaranteed starters. However, Green’s starting position—whether at power forward or center—remains undecided.
The Warriors found success last season with a frontcourt featuring Wiggins, Kuminga, and Green, but they also ended their season strong, winning nine of their last 11 games with Jackson-Davis starting alongside Wiggins and Green. Kerr will face additional decisions regarding the starting shooting guard position, with Brandin Podziemski emerging as a candidate to replace Thompson. However, offseason additions Buddy Hield and De’Anthony Melton also offer solid options, depending on whether the team wants to prioritize offense or defense.
While Wiggins’ absence is frustrating, the Warriors’ training camp battle for roster spots and minutes remains highly competitive, with the team looking to solidify their rotation before the regular season begins.
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