The 2022 NBA Finals are finally here! Andrew Wiggins was once looked at as a bust in the NBA. The former number one overall pick had sky-high expectations of him since the time he was in high school. The Kansas standout was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014 before being traded to the Timberwolves prior to even playing a game. Wiggins had fairly productive stats but was questioned for his overall impact. Jimmy Butler notably had issues with his work ethic along with other notable young members of the team. This led to the fallout of Jimmy Butler and possibly altered the career arc of Andrew Wiggins.

 

After 442 total games with Minnesota, Andrew Wiggins was traded to the Golden State Warriors. While his scoring numbers have taken a slight dip, he has been a vastly different player. Wiggins has been more comfortable embracing his role and picked up more winning habits. He may have stepped out of the spotlight as a star player, but has found a way to bring a greater impact on the game. The 26-year-old has reinvented himself and become a valuable piece of the Warriors. He even was named to his first all-star game this season despite having the lowest scoring total since his rookie season.

The two-way ability of Andrew Wiggins is certain to play a role in the NBA Finals. The 6-foot-7 wing is in just his second playoff appearance and is averaging 15.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists. A strong performance will be necessary from the starting forward will be necessary for the Warriors to reach their championship aspirations.

2022 NBA Finals Odds: Andrew Wiggins Series Points Average

Andrew Wiggins' series average over/under is set at 16.5 points. The over is +124 and the under is -158 on FanDuel. 

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The Golden State Warriors are going to be challenged by the Celtics' defense in a way they have not yet this postseason. Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart has proved to be the most difficult defender for Steph Curry. They also have several other valuable defenders such as Grant Williams, Al Horford, and Robert Williams. Both Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum are also above-average defenders who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty.

This overall team defense is set to challenge the entire Warriors team. However, there is sure to be a greater focus on Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. Each player carries a unique gravity that opens up the entire offense. The game-plan-altering defense that the duo demands will require other members of the Warriors to step up.

Andrew Wiggins has scored over 16.5 points in eight of the team's sixteen postseason games during the playoffs. It was highlighted by his 27-point performance in Game 3 vs the Mavericks. Wiggins was the second-leading scorer in this game trailing only Steph Curry who poured in 31 points. While his 0-7 performance from beyond the arc in Game 5 against Mavericks brings down his three-point average, the former Number One overall pick is a reliable floor spacer. He shot a career-high 39.3% on three-point attempts during the regular season.

2022 NBA Finals Prediction: Andrew Wiggins

While Wiggins will undoubtedly be called on for offensive support, there may not be enough shots to go around for him to hit this total. The combination of the impressive Celtics defense and place in the pecking order does not bode well for Wiggins.

However, look for Andrew Wiggins to be prepared for catch-and-shoot opportunities and pick his isolation opportunities when they arise. It will need to be an all-hands-on-deck performance for the Warriors in this series. Expect Wiggins to bring his best effort and provide a necessary scoring punch.

2022 NBA Finals Prediction: Bet the over on Andrew Wiggins averaging at least 16.5 points for the series at (+124)