NBA insider amazed at Andrew Wiggins taking a paycut
Before the NBA season got underway, the Golden State Warriors made the executive decision to extend Andrew Wiggins and Jordan Poole. The 27-year-old signed an extension worth $109 million over four years
Following a breakout season in 2021-22, many expected Poole to secure a decent payday. Despite his recent run with Draymond Green, the young guard has locked himself in to remain with Golden State.
While most weren't shocked by the deal Poole received, Wiggins' extension turned some heads. Given that he was a crucial part of the Warriors' success last season, he signed for a much lower amount than expected.
During a recent appearance on "95.7 The Game," ESPN's Brian Windhorst opened up on how amazed he was by the deal:
"Andrew Wiggins took a paycut! It was one of the more remarkable contracts I have seen in the last decade. Very rarely will you see a player in his prime, coming off a season like he did, take a paycut!"
Andrew Wiggins had a breakout season, Warriors’ luxury tax bills rise
After a polarizing stint with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Andrew Wiggins found himself in a new situation midway through the 2019-20 season. Landing on a championship-caliber team in Golden State, the young forward had the perfect opportunity to change the narrative that he couldn't be a winning player.
Because the Warriors had the proper hierarchy in place, he was able to come in and fill a defined role. While maintaining his high scoring average, the former No. 1 pick improved as a 3-point shooter. He also showcased how disruptive he can be on the defensive end.
Along with making his first All-Star team, he proved to be a key piece in the Warriors securing the title last season. The former T-Wolve averaged 16.5 points in the playoffs while locking down the opposing team's best perimeter player.
Golden State made the right decision in locking up Jordan Poole and Wiggins, but it will be an expensive road ahead for the franchise. Following these extensions, the team is expected to pay nearly half a billion dollars for their roster next season between salary and luxury tax.
The Warriors' owners have made it clear that they want to sustain success over a long period of time. Seeing that they are fresh off adding another championship to their dynasty, they are doing whatever they can to maximize their window.
Extending a young player on the rise in Poole was essential for Golden State as they prepare for the next phase of the franchise. In Wiggins' case, his unselfishness to sign a team-friendly deal should help the franchise remain a contender for the foreseeable future.