Andrew Wiggins was moved to the Golden State Warriors bench ahead of their loss to the LA Clippers on Thursday (Dec. 14) and has remained part of Golden State’s second unit in their past few games. However, Wiggins produced one of his best games of the season against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday (Dec. 17).
Wiggins ended the contest with 25 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block while shooting 75% from the field and 66.7% from 3-point range. When speaking to the media following the Warriors win, Wiggins discussed his current role off Golden State’s bench and how he aims to get back into the starting lineup in the coming weeks or months.
“It was definitely surprising (being moved to the bench.) Anything can happen in this league,” Wiggins said. “I’m blessed to be here. If I wanna get out of this little doghouse, I got to just keep fighting my way out.”
When he’s at his best, Wiggins is one of the best three-and-d wings in the NBA. He was instrumental in the Warriors’ march toward a championship in 2022 and is only just entering his prime years. Moving to a bench role has clearly sparked something within Wiggins, as he looks fired up to prove he’s capable of making an impact with the starters.
"If I want to get out of this little doghouse, I got to just keep fighting my way out"
Wiggs is embracing the challenge of reclaiming his place in the Warriors' starting lineup pic.twitter.com/xPF8SXEQF3
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) December 18, 2023
Brandin Podziemski‘s impressive start to his NBA career has created a battle for playing time between him and Wiggins. It’s a battle that could bring out the best in both players and ensure neither get too complacent throughout the season. Still, Wiggins will need to prove that his performance against the Trail Blazers is sustainable if he wants to dislodge the impressive rookie and earn his spot in the starting lineup back.
