Andrew Wiggins was oh-so close to returning to the Warriors this week, but his return has been put on hold.
Wiggins is out of the lineup for Tuesday’s clash against the Charlotte Hornets, which marks his 11th straight game sidelined due to adductor strain, which is located in his core. Golden State expected Wiggins to be able to return for Wednesday’s game against the Utah Jazz, but coach Steve Kerr said that Wiggins has come down with a cold.
“Unfortunately he’s sick now,” Kerr said. “He’s been cleared to play but he’s not in the building tonight because he came down ill (Monday). He’ll be out (Tuesday) and (Wednesday) and hopefully gets better quickly. We’ll see how he’s doing. We were targeting tomorrow. That was likely to happen, then he came down ill (Monday).
So the earliest Wiggins would be able to return is Friday night against the Portland Trail Blazers. Golden State could desperately use his scoring, shooting, defense and rebounding, as the Dubs have gone 3-7 in the 10 games he’s missed so far. Wiggins ranks first in 3-point percentage (45 percent), second in minutes per game (32.8), third in points per game (19.1) and usually defends the opposing team’s top perimeter threat.
Wiggins is not listed on the injury report due to health and safety protocols, so it appears he is out with a non-COVID illness. Tuesday marks the fourth straight contest missed by reserve forward JaMychal Green, who remains in health and safety protocols.
The Warriors are patiently awaiting Wiggins’ return, along with superstar Steph Curry, who will be re-evaluated in early January for his left shoulder injury that’s kept him out since Dec. 14.
