Why Wagner believes he'd fit in great with Steph, Warriors

Share

Whomever the Warriors select with the No. 7 and No. 14 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, they hope those rookies will be able to fit in seamlessly next to Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, and can help Golden State fill one of its areas of need.

Michigan wing Franz Wagner believes he checks those boxes.

“I would fit in really well, obviously they have two great shooters next year again and probably the best point guard in the game,” Wagner said Monday during his pre-draft availability. “I think what they need, I think my versatility can help that team a lot. I think being able to defend multiple positions and also shoot the three well, I think is what’s going to help me stay on the floor or get on the court. I think I can read the game well and can play a free game, that’s what I would call it, and I think Golden State plays that very much.”

"They just kind of move a lot off the ball and pass the ball and move the ball a lot and move their bodies. I think that requires high IQ players and players that play the game with each other and I think I can do that really well.”

Wagner, who told reporters he now is 6-foot-11, is a smart, versatile player who can defend multiple positions, create for himself and others on offense, has a high basketball IQ and is an efficient shooter.

While the Warriors have been linked to Moses Moody, Josh Giddey, James Bouknight, Chris Duarte and Davion Mitchell, it wouldn't be a surprise to see them draft Wagner and add a versatile wing who can add scoring off the bench.

"I think I can shoot, I think I can dribble, I can play defense, I think I can defend really well at multiple positions, I think that’s going to fit in well," Wagner said. "I know how to read the game too and how to play within a system. I think that will help me fit in with whatever team I’m going to play at. But I also think I have a lot of room to grow. I think that combination of maturity in my game and being able to fit in right away, and also, being able to improve a lot more, I think is what makes me unique in this draft."

RELATED: Warriors must find wings with Oubre's future dim

The Warriors will continue looking for a trade partner in the days leading up to the 2021 NBA Draft. But if no blockbuster deal materializes, Wagner very well could find himself as the newest Warriors come Thursday night.

And given his defensive acumen, versatility and offensive skill set, it would be hard to nitpick the selection if the Warriors go that route.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

Contact Us