Why Wiggins’ slow start isn’t a problem for Warriors coach Kerr
Why Wiggins’ slow start isn’t a problem for Warriors coach Kerr originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
Andrew Wiggins has had a slow start to the 2023-24 NBA season, but the Warriors don’t appear to be worried.
Wiggins scored just eight points, five rebounds and one assist on 3-of-9 shooting from the field in the game The Warriors’ 115-104 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Warriors coach Steve Kerr was asked about Wiggins’ struggles and expressed confidence that his veteran forward would soon return to his tackling form.
“It was a little slow start, but defense is key,” Kerr said. “His defense is always very important for us and the better he is defensively, the stronger his offense becomes. I’m not worried about Wiggs at all, it’s just a slow start and he has a long track record. He’s been with us for five years now, so he knows how we play. I can probably try to help him a little with some things, but Wiggs will be fine.”
In seven games this season, Wiggins averaged 11.7 points, 3.0 rebounds and 0.7 assists per game on 43.8 percent shooting from the field and 20 percent from 3-point range. Wiggins is a minus-5.4 in 25.8 minutes per game on the court.
Kerr told reporters afterward Friday night’s win over the Oklahoma City Thunder that he wants Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II and Wiggins to “be the athletes they are” and provide more speed and athleticism on both ends of the floor.
The Warriors (5:2) have enjoyed many successes so far this season. When Wiggins finally gets going on both ends of the floor, Kerr and his team should benefit greatly from the improved play of one of the NBA’s best two-way stars.
