Golden State Warriors’ seasoned player Andrew Wiggins found himself amidst trade rumors, prompting him to deliver a stellar performance before Thursday’s deadline, aiming to underscore his value to the franchise.
In a match against the Joel Embiid-absent Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night at Wells Fargo Center, Wiggins played a pivotal role in guiding the Warriors to a convincing 127-104 victory.
Despite Stephen Curry’s subdued performance with just nine points, Wiggins showcased his prowess with 21 points, 10 rebounds, along with contributions in assists, steals, and blocks, elevating Golden State’s season record to 23-25.
Amidst speculations surrounding Wiggins’ potential trade, NBA enthusiasts took to social media to laud the forward’s remarkable display:
Unanimous CEO @NanamaxamedWiggins playing like he found himself again
Mr. Bunch @darinbunchNot sure how you can watch this Warriors team *right now* and think Andrew Wiggins should be traded 🤦♂️#DubNation
𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐝𝐞 @NVSEvadeWiggins is so back
We can’t trade him
Chef curry Parody @baby_face_goatWiggins when he saw himself in trade rumors with Bobby portis
Wiggins when he saw himself in trade rumors with Bobby portis pic.twitter.com/1Wml0WJcH9
— Chef curry Parody (@baby_face_goat) February 8, 2024
Niko @nikotaughtyouWiggins playing like a man who got told he won’t get moved at the deadline lmaooo
𝙏 𝙈 𝙆 ✰ @ThaRealTMKya still want Wiggins traded? pic.twitter.com/SHbMCEsHyZ
Previn Naidu 🌉🗽☃️ @PrevDieselWiggins playing with confidence… WELCOME SIGHT #DubNation
Wiggins playing with confidence… WELCOME SIGHT #DubNation pic.twitter.com/nQmd3GBjRt
— Previn Naidu 🇺🇸🇸🇬🌉🗽☃️ (@PrevDiesel) February 8, 2024
YySE⚜️ @BeHumble__When Wiggins plays like this the warriors are the most dangerous team.
They’re up 27 and Steph has 9 points
NBA STAN @NBA_Stan94DO NOT TRADE ANDREW WIGGINS. Trade Cp3 instead. Thanks. #DubNation #Warriors
Wiggins’ name has been associated with the Milwaukee Bucks and Dallas Mavericks in the lead-up to the trade deadline.
However, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, “in order for Milwaukee to reach Wiggins’ $24.3 million salary, the Bucks would need to include forward Bobby Portis in any outgoing package, and Milwaukee, sources said, is going to think long and hard before sacrificing Portis in any deal at this deadline.”
Despite experiencing a comparatively subdued season, Wiggins remains a commendable asset for any title contender should the Warriors opt for a trade.
Heading into Wednesday’s game, he maintained averages of 12.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 42 games, with shooting percentages standing at 43.7 from the floor and 31.1 from beyond the arc.