Steve Kerr says Warriors are completely behind Andrew Wiggins as he continues to deal with off-court issues
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr showed a lot of support for Andrew Wiggins during a recent press conference. While addressing the forward's absence, Kerr mentioned how the team has always stood behind him during his personal tribulations.
The Warriors have been shorthanded at several different points this season. Although Steph Curry's absences have been the ones that have been felt the most, the Dubs have had to find ways to cope without Andrew Wiggins as well.
Wiggins has been out of action since mid-February. There's been no official reason as to why he's been sidelined, apart from the fact that it's personal.
It was only recently that the controversy surrounding Wiggins' absence was brought to public attention. Rumors suggested that Wiggins' girlfriend, Mychal Johnson, was cheating on him with his best friend. However, Wiggins' girlfriend debunked those theories.
During all of this, the Warriors players and organization have continued to show support for Wiggins. Head coach Steve Kerr said the main goal was to ensure Wiggins' well-being.
"Well, we love Wiggs. He's a huge part of our team. He's a great player but he's a great human being. He's a great teammate, I love coaching him. So anytime you see one of your guys struggling, dealing with something, all you can do is just support them, that player. Give him space. That's what we've tried to do."
He continued:
"Our coaches, the front-office have just been thinking about Wiggs everyday. If he comes back, great. If he doesn't come back, that's fine too. We just want to make sure that he's in a good place, taking care of his family and we'll see how it plays out."
"If [Andrew Wiggins] comes back, great, if he doesn't come back, that's fine too."
- Steve Kerr on Wiggins being away from the Warriors https://t.co/Y6zfx9XXqq
The Golden State Warriors need Andrew Wiggins back
The Golden State Warriors have done a great job of backing Andrew Wiggins during this difficult time in his life. However, from a basketball standpoint, the Dubs need their star forward back.
Andrew Wiggins is a key player in Golden State's schemes. Although his impact on offense is massive, Wiggins plays a larger role as the team's primary defender. Taking on the task of guarding some of the best players in the league, Wiggins shapes the Warriors' defensive identity.
Golden State has found ways to adapt. But if they are to defend their title this season, the Dubs will need him to return.