James Wiseman’s comeback attempt hit another setback Wednesday, as he entered the NBA’s health and safety protocols.
Wiseman hasn’t played in a game since April 10 after injuring his meniscus on an awkward landing on a dunk attempt. The 20-year-old center has been rehabbing with Golden State and the Santa Cruz Warriors in the past few weeks but has yet to be cleared for contact. This news puts a damper on Wiseman’s comeback, as he appeared to be entering his final stages of recovery.
The news wasn’t all bad for the Warriors Wednesday on the COVID-19 front. According to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater, Jordan Poole and Moses Moody are no longer listed on the injury report, meaning they could return for Thursday’s road contest against the Denver Nuggets. Poole has missed the past six games while Moody has missed the past two contests. Damion Lee and Draymond Green remain in health and safety protocols.
The Warriors are patiently awaiting the return of Wiseman, an athletic center who could help change the makeup of the team. Klay Thompson is also expected to return some time in January, perhaps as soon as Monday against Miami, though the Heat’s contest Wednesday was postponed since they don’t have a minimum eight players due to health and safety protocols.
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It’s been a frustrating road for Wiseman since he was drafted No. 2 overall in the NBA draft last season.
“More than anything, I just feel bad for James,” Kerr said on Dec. 6 about Wiseman’s recovery. “It’s time for him to get out there for his own well-being, improvement and where he is in his young career. He’s too young for something like this to happen. I feel bad for him. But he’s maintained a really good attitude.”
