Andrew Wiggins made a triumphant return to the court for the Golden State Warriors in Game 1 of their NBA Playoffs first-round series against the Sacramento Kings. After missing several games in the second half of the regular season due to personal reasons, Wiggins was eager to pick up where he left off.
In the first period of the game, Wiggins wasted no time in making an impact, sinking a jumper in the face of former Warriors forward Harrison Barnes to give Golden State a two-point lead. While he came off the bench in Game 1, his return to action provides the Warriors with an integral perimeter weapon on both ends of the floor.
During the regular season, Wiggins averaged 17.1 points on 47.3 percent shooting from the floor, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. In the 2022 NBA Playoffs, he put up impressive numbers with 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game. With Wiggins back, the Warriors have another scoring option to complement Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
“I feel like I had a great couple of days of practice,” Wiggins said ahead of Game 1 (h/t C.J. Holmes of the San Francisco Chronicle). “I’m feeling good about myself, the team. So when we play, (I want to pick up) right where I left off.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdxt2Hvi6H4&pp=ygUVR29sZGVuIFN0YXRlIFdhcnJpb3Jz
Despite spending a significant amount of time away from the action, Wiggins looked sharp and ready to help the Warriors defend their title. While he may have started Game 1 on the bench, it’s likely that he will be re-inserted into the starting lineup in the near future.
Wiggins’ return is a welcome boost for the Warriors, who have struggled with injuries and absences throughout the season. With a healthy and motivated Wiggins on the court, Golden State has another weapon to rely on as they look to make a deep playoff run. While the road ahead won’t be easy, the Warriors are certainly glad to have Wiggins back in the fold.
Despite the Loss Andrew Wiggins Shines Bright in Return to Warriors Lineup with Stellar Performance
Golden State Warriors’ Andrew Wiggins made an impressive return to the court after more than two months away from the game due to an undisclosed family matter. He came off the bench for the first time in his career, but still managed to make a significant impact, finishing with 17 points, three rebounds, one assist, and four blocks in 28 minutes of play.
Despite his long absence, Wiggins showed few signs of rust and proved to be a valuable asset for the Warriors in the playoffs. He played a crucial role in the team’s championship victory last season, averaging 16.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game in the playoffs. Wiggins signed a four-year contract extension in October, making him a long-term fit for the Warriors.
