Longhorns forward Kai Jones: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
The Warriors have two picks in the first round of this year’s draft, and here are three players they should avoid at all costs.
The Golden State Warriors are in a unique position entering the 2021 NBA Draft. They have franchise cornerstones in Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, and they just used last year’s No. 2 pick on James Wiseman. This year, the team has two first-round selections (No. 7 and No. 14), and they’ll have some freedom when they’re on the clock. Golden State should be looking for the best player available with the star power on their roster, then groom them into a player that fits their system.
The Warriors need to be smart with their two picks, as they don’t want to waste it on players that bring no value to their team. When the team is officially on the clock, there are three players they should stay away from.
3. Warriors should avoid Kai Jones from Texas
Despite Kai Jones‘ lottery talent, he doesn’t make sense for the Warriors to use either draft pick on him. Centers are a dying breed in the NBA, and they just drafted James Wiseman out of Memphis with the No. 2 overall pick last year. Going back-to-back years on centers isn’t logical in today’s NBA landscape.
Various injuries cut Wiseman’s season short, only playing in 39 games last season. But he showed some promise when he was in there, and Draymond has taken him under his wing. He’s on track to be ready for training camp, and with Klay Thompson returning, it could be a breakout year for the Memphis product. The Warriors’ high aspirations for Wiseman should make them stay away from standout prospect Kai Jones.