Report: Warriors prefer to draft wing; Avdija ‘makes sense'

Share

The 2020 NBA Draft still is over two months away, and the Warriors could go in multiple different directions with the No. 2 overall pick.

Some believe that Golden State will select James Wiseman if the big man is on the board. 

Others -- including yours truly -- have the mindset that the Dubs will go with a wing player. 

"Sources from multiple front offices believe Golden State’s preference is to draft a wing," The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor writes.

And within the same article, the mock draft has the Warriors picking Deni Avdija.

"Avdija makes logical sense as a highly experienced player who projects as a versatile 6-foot-9 forward with playmaking skills," O'Connor writes.

The 19-year-old is terrific in transition, and is a gifted passer.

Avdija averaged 12.9 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists over 33 games for Maccabi Tel Aviv last season, while shooting 52.6 percent overall and 35.3 percent from 3-point range.

In the process, he became the youngest MVP in Israeli Basketball League history.

"Aggressive offensive player who is in attack mode every time he steps onto the floor," ESPN's Mike Schmitz writes. "Loves shooting pull-up 3-pointers in transition. Brings toughness, competitiveness and swagger.

"Has made significant strides on defense. Covers ground well and plays with real intensity getting over screens, battling on the glass and rotating to protect the rim. Gets in passing lanes, blocks quite a few shots and rebounds well."

Keep in mind that the Warriors could trade down several picks in the lottery and still end up nabbing Avdija.

RELATED: Klay's shot looks even better than before injury, dad says

Lastly, former Warriors forward Omri Casspi had a nearly 40-minute sit-down conversation with Avdija in late May.

They cover a bunch of interesting topics. And don't worry -- there are English subtitles.

Follow @DrewShiller on Twitter and Instagram

Contact Us