Wiggins' lack of fitness could cost him support with Warriors

Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins. Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Andrew Wiggins' lack of fitness could cost him support within the Warriors

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 11/28/23

Andrew Wiggins has underperformed to being the season. The Golden State Warriors champion is struggling on both sides of the floor and has been in and out of Steve Kerr's clutch time rotation.

According to Kendra Andrews of ESPN, a lack of fitness could be partly responsible for his slow start, and has annoyed some members of the Warriors organization.

"As for Wiggins, sources told ESPN that after missing two months last season over a still undisclosed personal matter, he didn't take the time necessary during the summer to get back into shape ahead of this season," Andrews wrote. "His lack of physical conditioning annoyed some within the organization, a team source added."

What exactly is going on in Golden State?

ESPN story on four questions on the state of the Warriors ahead of tonight’s big game in Sacramento: https://t.co/2ZPCWxZeFp
— Kendra Andrews (@kendra__andrews) November 28, 2023

When at his best, Wiggins is an elite point-of-attack defender who is capable of shutting down the opponent's best player. He's also a reliable secondary scorer, both as a slasher and a spot-up shooter. Yet, we haven't seen that version of him since the new season began.

Golden State has struggled throughout the month of November, including a six-game losing streak. Wiggins has been a significant part of that slump. In 17 games, the former first-overall draft pick is averaging 11.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists, shooting 41.7% from the field and 25.5% from three-point range. All of those numbers are below his career average.

The best chance of bringing another championship to the Bay Area is with Wiggins operating at a high level, especially on defense. The longer his struggles continue, the more frustrated members of the franchise will become.

Not because he's struggling on the court but because, if Andrew's report is to be believed, there was a clear lack of preparation from Wiggins and his camp.

It's too soon to be talking about the Warriors needing a trade. Yet, if that time does come, Wiggins may find himself near the top of the list.

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