“League is shaking lmao” – Fans go berserk as Andrew Wiggins returns to Bay Area
All-Star forward Andrew Wiggins is back in the Bay Area, according to reports Friday, and that could mean that he's back in the lineup for the Golden State Warriors. Accordingly, fans couldn't help but be energized with the return of the two-way star who could change the team's fortunes.
Wiggins hasn't played since Feb. 13, and his absence has been felt by the team. Losing Wiggins for 20 games has been a challenge for the Warriors (40-37) as they don't have an athletic two-way forward to rely in key moments.
After spending time away from the team due to personal reasons, Andrew Wiggins is finally back in the Bay Area. 🙌
(via @JDumasReports) https://t.co/C7BzLLJDwL
Since the reports were confirmed, fans couldn't help but be excited about his return. We've collected some of the best reactions from fans, and here are some of the best.
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports League is shaking lmao
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports League is finished https://t.co/PsbWMkCjjt
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports Just ring the Warriors already man
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports We going back to back
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports Good for him happy he’s back now it’s scary hours😈
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports He Going Off For 40 tonight 😂🔥
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports Damn that's crazy....
Suns in 4
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports West is done for
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports And there it is. Superteam assembled. The only way CurFraud can win.
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports The warriors are going to smoke the Kings
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports https://t.co/glZPqEQy2O
@LegionHoops @JDumasReports Warriors fans: https://t.co/jNELCPrnn6
The Warriors haven't had an easy run without their All-Star forward. In their last 20 games, Golden State went 11-9 and have struggled greatly in getting wins from home (two three-game losing skids on the road). Additionally, its perimeter defense has suffered in trying to stop some matchups.
The reason behind Wiggins' absence hasn't been confirmed, but there's been a rumor about his wife being involved in an infidelity scandal with his best friend. The former first pick hasn't addressed this rumor.
With Wiggins back, the team could turn things around and become a problem as it enters the postseason.
You might also be interested in reading: Andrew Wiggins returns: Former champion reportedly arrives in Bay Area for Golden State Warriors
How well has Andrew Wiggins played for the Warriors this season?
The Warriors haven't had their best season, as they've struggled to get wins and defend at a high level. Most of this was due to the plethora of injuries the team has suffered. So, let's take a look at how well Andrew Wiggins has performed this season.
Wiggins has only appeared in 37 games, with Golden State going 19-18. Before his long absence, he had already missed 15 straight games from early December to early January. Due to this, the Warriors struggled to win and haven't been at the top of their game. Maple Jordan is averaging 17.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists while shooting 47.3%, including 39.6% from 3-point range.
Despite putting up decent numbers, his lack of availability has taken a toll on the team.
With him back on the floor, the Warriors have a chance to make serious noise as they enter the playoffs. They are currently in sixth place in the Western Conference standings and could stay in that seeding when the postseason starts.
Also read: “How long it’s gonna take Andrew Wiggins to return from a broken heart” – Mase delivers a wild take on former champion’s absence