Why Wiggins’ slow start doesn’t concern Warriors coach Kerr

Why Wiggins’ slow start doesn’t concern Warriors coach Kerr originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The slow start of Andrew Wiggins in the 2023-24 NBA season has not become a cause for concern for the Warriors.

Wiggins underperformed in the Warriors’ 115-104 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, scoring only eight points on 3-of-9 shooting from the field. However, Warriors coach Steve Kerr remains confident in Wiggins’ ability to return to his impactful two-way form.

Kerr emphasized the importance of Wiggins’ defense and expressed optimism that his offensive game will improve as his defensive prowess grows. Despite the slow start, Kerr is not worried about Wiggins, given his track record and long-standing familiarity with the team’s style of play. Kerr also hinted at offering guidance to Wiggins to aid his development.

So far this season, Wiggins is averaging 11.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game, shooting 43.8 percent from the field and 20 percent from beyond the arc. On average, he has a minus-5.4 rating during his 25.8 minutes on court.

Kerr highlighted that he wants Wiggins, along with Jonathan Kuminga and Gary Payton II, to use their athleticism to bring increased speed and versatility on both ends of the court. As the Warriors have enjoyed a successful 5-2 start to the season, Wiggins finding his rhythm and contributing effectively offensively and defensively could greatly benefit the team.

For more insights and analysis, download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast.