No matter how far the team goes in the playoffs, Golden State Warriors fans should not expect to see James Wiseman on the court.
The Golden State Warriors are looking to make a run to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2019. They certainly have a good shot at it, as they hold a 2-1 series lead over the Memphis Grizzlies entering Game 4 on Monday, May 9. For those Warriors fans wondering if James Wiseman could return the further they make a run in the NBA playoffs.
Back on May 6, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr revealed that no matter how far the team goes in the playoffs, they will not consider playing Wiseman at any point.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said the franchise will not revisit the thought of injured center James Wiseman (knee) playing this season no matter how long the season goes.
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) May 6, 2022
Steve Kerr shuts down chances of James Wiseman returning for playoffs
Wiseman has yet to play in a game for the Warriors since the end of the 2020-21 season, where he suffered a torn right meniscus, where he underwent surgery at the end of that campaign. He then underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee this past December.
The 2020 second-overall selection did participate in the G League this year, but suffered a setback in his rehabilitation. This past March, the team shut him down for the remainder of this season.
Wiseman did speak to the media on May 9, saying that a return all depends on his progression, where he did mention playing in Summer League remains a possibility. You can listen to his comments below, courtesy of The Athletic’s Anthony Slater.
James Wiseman's been spotted during these playoffs doing stationary work. Hasn't returned to contact yet. Here's an update from Wiseman. Said summer league remains a possibility.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) May 9, 2022
"It all depends on what Rick (Celebrini) says about my progression." pic.twitter.com/xnDvF9elmm
The Warriors are looking to take a 3-1 series lead over the Grizzlies to inch that much closer to clinching a spot in the Western Conference Finals. Their chances have improved, considering Grizzlies star Ja Morant is unlikely to play in Game 4 due to a right nee injury.