KEY POINTS

  • James Wiseman could be a better fit for the Warriors or Hornets over the Timberwolves
  • Wiseman does not fancy joining the T-Wolves, an insider says
  • Wiseman is not yet a shoo-in to join the Warriors

James Wiseman is arguably one of the top centers to get in the 2020 NBA Draft, a reason why the Golden State Warriors and the Charlotte Hornets are seriously considering him. But it is believed that he is unlikely to be the top pick for this year’s class. It appears he is fine with that reality.

Wiseman is not interested in joining Minnesota, aware that Karl-Anthony Towns is already there and understandably the top player for the franchise, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst.

During an appearance on “The Scoop W/ Doggie” podcast hosted by Darren "Doogie" Wolfson from 5 Eyewitness News, Windhorst said the 7-foot-1 player does not want anything to do with the Timberwolves, aware that he is unlikely to improve playing behind the All-Star center. International Business Times could not independently verify the information.

“From what I understand, Wiseman doesn’t even want to do anything with the Wolves,” Windhorst said.

Even before the sports journalist's statement, it was believed that Wiseman being picked by the Timberwolves had low to zero chance. The clear target for Minnesota is LaMelo Ball or possibly Anthony Edwards. The team needs someone who can score and the two players are the plausible options for the T-Wolves.

That said, the only thing known for now is that Wiseman will not be the top pick of the 2020 NBA Draft. But the Golden State Warriors, owners to the right for the second overall pick, could be it, unless the Dubs get a tempting offer to deal away that right.

Assuming no deal happens, the Warriors will have to make a choice – draft a player to fill in a key position or take in a talented scorer for their long-term plans. Golden State head coach Steve Kerr is in a rare position to pick high in a draft. That said, the wise money is to use that on the best talent available, which is Edwards.

However, Wiseman is someone that any team would be foolish to pass up. Considering they don’t have a big man in the mix and have proven scorers, the only downside with the Memphis product is his skills. But based on discussions over at “The Jump,” it appears Kerr may be ready to take that chance and fill the team’s key player needs.

With the 2020 NBA Draft just weeks away, it all depends on whether the Warriors will still be at the no. 2 spot by that time. The Dubs are listening to offers, but nothing has cropped up for now. That could change come draft night.

It would also be worth noting that even if the Warriors pick at no. 2, there is also a chance that they could trade that player away at some point. The Dubs have options, and it all boils down to how that new face can blend in with their system.

James Wiseman #32 of the Memphis Tigers
James Wiseman #32 of the Memphis Tigers Getty Images | Steve Dykes