Former Memphis center James Wiseman is rising up draft boards, which could provide the Golden State Warriors with a trade opportunity if they look to move off the No. 2 pick.
Sam Vecenie of The Athletic reported Wiseman has impressed with individual workouts, and is slowly garnering more attention as perhaps the “safest” player towards the top of the draft:
Having talked to sources who have seen Wiseman work out in Miami, there is some real enthusiasm about his play. He’s looked dominant in workouts and in the runs with other high-level NBA Draft prospects. A lot of executives I’ve spoken with actually consider Wiseman to be among the safer players in the draft. Simply put, few executives doubt that his size, length and athleticism will translate into being a starting quality NBA center.
James Wiseman played just three games with the Tigers before the NCAA hit him with a suspension for allegedly receiving impermissible benefits to attend the university. He subsequently withdrew to prepare for the 2020 draft.
However, the lack of collegiate experience has not prevented Wiseman from making some noise ahead of next month's draft. He also has plenty of intrigue to a Warriors team possibly looking for a frontcourt upgrade or seeking to dangle the No. 2 pick as trade bait.
Marc Berman of the New York Post reported the Knicks are prepared to trade back from the No. 8 spot if LaMelo Ball or Wiseman are not available by the time they are on the clock.
Many feel the Minnesota Timberwolves could take Ball with the first overall pick, opening the door for the Dubs to possibly seek a trade with the Knicks in order for New York to make a run at Wiseman.
The question is: do the Knicks have other desirable assets the Warriors might covet? That remains to be seen, but Wiseman's improving stock and ties with multiple teams might allow Golden State more flexibility in its draft plans.
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