NBA Trade Rumors: Wiggins Contract May Force Warriors To Consider Offers

Andrew Wiggins remains in search of his basketball calling and most feel that his addition to the Golden State Warriors is it. The former top pick of the 2014 NBA Draft has hardly carved a niche and such is expected to continue in the Bay Area. Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are the stars of Dub City and the best Wiggins can do is settle for a backup role.

Of course, he could prove doubters wrong and come out big this 2020-21 NBA season. But even if he does, most criticize the contract he carries. He signed a five-year $148 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves last year, money that could deprive the Dubs of taking in top targets the club needs.

So the biggest question heading into next season is will the Warriors keep Andrew Wiggins? Will there be any chance of a trade? If there is one coming, will it be in the offseason or before the trade deadline?

There is a chance that it will not come at all. Wiggins seems comfortable playing behind the Warriors Big Three. For as long as the 25-year-old is being paid, it may hardly matter. However, he needs to make sure that he performs accordingly for the Dubs. He is touted to be a core-four player next to Curry, Thompson and Green but will need to prove it.

Last season, he showed what he could do if given the chance. But most know that his coming and playing time was more of a way to gauge if he is fit for the Warriors. Head coach Steve Kerr continues to speak highly of the 6-foot-7. However, he has done the same with former players like D’Angelo Russell – the same guy the Dubs traded for Wiggins.

If the numbers game is to be considered, Wiggins had a respectable 2019-20 season. He played in 54 games, averaging 21.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per Basketball-Reference.com. His offense is unquestionable although he needs to play good defense as well.

One advantage that Wiggins holds is that he can also play the two-guard, something the T-Wolves got him doing. But with the Dubs, he may need to man up and boost the frontline. The Warriors are undermanned and need help on the boards and the defensive end. Wiggins can shoot from afar, something that makes him perfect for Kerr’s system.

But at the end of the day, it is all about results. If his presence hardly helps the Dubs and his fat contract do not justify his role, Golden State may just consider options – including a possible trade to some other team.