Selected No. 1: Andrew Wiggins, SG/SF, Kansas
Overall Grade: A
Wiggins on the front of Sports Illustrated Source: Flickr.com
Wiggins or Parker? Both are remarkable talents in their own individual form. A mirror of what the 2003 NBA Draft included among LeBron James, and Carmelo Anthony can be somewhat akin. The expectations will accompany both these rookies during their NBA journey’s, much comparatively of the 2003 class.
Andrew Wiggins, a high-flying athletic forward that holds the highest ceiling of potential in the draft. The Canadian native was the cover boy of Sports Illustrated at one period comparing him to previous legend and Jayhawk Wilt Chamberlain. Arguably the most talked about talent from the 2014 class; Wiggins was assumed the best NBA prospect since LeBron James, prior to his first season at Kansas.
So how does he exactly fit in Cleveland?
With the Cavaliers having the trouble of filling the small forward spot the last couple of seasons, Wiggins appears to fit in nicely especially with the realization that LeBron James may not be returning to Cleveland anytime soon. Wiggins will be expected to compete with Dion Waiters for his minutes on the court.
Luol Deng will also be a free-agent, with uncertainty looming where he may land next season. A key area of perimeter defence has been in need over the past few seasons in Cleveland, and Wiggins is capable of improving that facet.
“I’ve got to believe in myself before anyone else can.”
– Andrew Wiggins (source: time.com)
Why did the Cavs select Wiggins over Parker?
The Joel Embiid injury fracture surely did derail the plans of Cleveland, who showed major interest in the big man. With an injury report shortly confirming before the NBA Draft that Joel would face a lengthy 6-8 months on the sidelines. Leading to team owner Dan Gilbert and his staff narrowing their choices down to two, Wiggins or Parker. The small forward from Kansas finished precisely as the first pick, projected from the very beginning.
Considered both a wise move for Cleveland and Andrew Wiggins. Wiggins can be a two-way player but was more inconsistent at performing this at Kansas. Main strength including his defence possessing great hands, ultra quickness and athleticism.
The landing scene in Cleveland advocates some pressure off what’s expected on offense of Wiggins, allowing some time and perseverance to improve his jump shot. He will simply be required to provide a modest amount on offense retaining Kyrie Irving is the leading scorer for this team finishing the 2013-14 season amongst the top 20 players in the NBA in total points scored with 1478 points. (source:http://stats.nba.com/)
Andrew Wiggins Image Source; Flickr – Vinny Nardella, Accessed on 4th July 2014 https://flic.kr/p/nJj71c
Rookie Projections
Wiggins would slide into the starting small forward spot and could average;
14.5 PTS, 6.4 REB, 3.2 AST, 1.8 STL, 0.9 BLK.
Comparison –
Rudy Gay & Paul George
Having watched what Wiggins brings to the table, it is fair to suggest the comparison of Paul George of the Indiana Pacers. Eventually becoming a two-way player in the NBA requires much more consistency than college, which Wiggins would have to apply in order to become the “alpha dog” something he is capable becoming.
Much like fellow rookie Dante Exum, Wiggins has a great upside, but I imagine we will see glimpses of his potential during his rookie campaign. I look forward to the second or third season from Wiggins in the NBA, and believe he will resemble the route of Paul George by then.
Referenced Cover Image
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