James Wiseman Injury Update
The news that James Wiseman tore his meniscus is causing quite a stir in the sports world. We’ll explore the injury’s extent, what it means for the Warriors’ depth chart, and the impact on the 2022-23 season. But there’s one key detail missing from the story: an exact timetable for his return. Here’s what we know so far. First, Wiseman was in practice with the Browns on Saturday, but he hasn’t been cleared for contact. As such, his return is a mystery.
James Wiseman torn meniscus
In April, the Warriors selected the NBA draft prospect James Wiseman with the No. 2 overall pick. This season, he averaged 11.5 points and 5.8 rebounds, starting 27 of 39 games. However, his season ended early in the third quarter after a season-ending torn meniscus. According to reports, Wiseman will be out indefinitely following the initial surgery. A few weeks later, he will be cleared for 3-on-3 scrimmages.
Surgical options for a torn meniscus are limited by how severe the injury is. Wiseman’s injury, while causing him to miss a week of basketball, was minor compared to more serious injuries. The Warriors are not rushing Wiseman to return, as he’ll need several months to heal. Wiseman’s recovery time will be anywhere from six to nine months.
Timetable for his return
The 2020 second overall pick in the NBA Draft is still rehabbing from a torn meniscus in his right knee. While his timetable for returning from injury is unknown, the Warriors’ head coach has offered a positive update. Wiseman is expected to be back by training camp, according to Kerr. The youngster will continue to rehab in the Bay Area. There is no timetable for Wiseman’s return, but the Warriors are attempting to get him ready for a return as soon as possible.
As of Wednesday, the Warriors have not yet confirmed his return date, but Wiseman is expected to participate in a G League game this weekend. Wiseman will practice with the Golden State squad, but will play for their G League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors. He will not play against the Agua Caliente Clippers, according to NBC Sports Bay Area. But the Warriors hope to have Wiseman back by the end of September.
Impact on Warriors’ depth chart
The Warriors’ injury to Klay Thompson reverberates throughout the roster. The No. 2 overall pick on Wednesday was sidelined with a season-ending injury. The Warriors were hopeful that James Wiseman would contribute as a rookie. His absence will leave a huge hole in their lineup. Kerr tightened his rotation before the injury to give Steph Curry more playing time. Now, with Wiseman out, he is likely to struggle to find a starting role.
After surgery, Wiseman was expected to return to the Warriors’ rotation. But the injury has pushed back that timeline. The Warriors aren’t sure when Wiseman will return, and there are a number of question marks over whether they’ll make up for Wiseman’s absence. In the meantime, Wiseman will likely remain in the Bay Area while he continues his rehab and strength and conditioning program.
Impact on 2022-23 season
The Warriors are slowly but surely figuring out how to use Wiseman after he was injured in March. The forward did not expect to play a large role on a deep Golden State team. Coach Steve Kerr said in March that Wiseman was unlikely to be a part of the rotation during the playoffs. Because of this, the Warriors are taking it slow and giving Wiseman more time to prepare for his return.
Wiseman is nearing full-contact work, according to his agent, Shams Charania. After missing the entire season with a torn meniscus, Wiseman is nearing full-contact play. The Warriors haven’t revealed a timeline for Wiseman’s return, but Charania said he hopes to play during the Summer League. It’s unclear how much his return will affect the Warriors’ next season, but he will be back soon enough to make an impact.
