Andrew Wiggins became an All-Star for the first time in his career last season.
This season, the Warriors forward is looking to add another honor to his resume.
Wiggins was a recent guest on “The VC Show,” a podcast run by NBA legend Vince Carter and ESPN’s Ros Gold-Onwude. When asked what’s next after he earned his first All-Star selection and championship, Wiggins said his personal goal is making an All-Defensive team in the 2022-23 season.
“One thing I’m really going to strive for this upcoming season is being on the defensive team,” Wiggins responded. “That’s a big goal of mine, and hopefully I opened some eyes in the playoffs so I can be on the radar.”
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Wiggins sure did open some eyes in the playoffs.
In Golden State’s Western Conference Finals matchup with Dallas, Wiggins took on the primary assignment of guarding Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic. While Doncic still got his numbers, Wiggins helped limit the three-time All-Star to an uncharacteristic 41.5 percent shooting from the field.
Wiggins then matched up with three-time All-Star Jayson Tatum in the Finals. According to the tracking data, Tatum shot 37.5 percent from the field and attempted only two free throws when Wiggins was matched up with him in the six-game series.
Wiggins also showed off his versatility by defending Ja Morant in the second round, though the Grizzlies star was sidelined for three of the six games due to a knee injury.
“I’m impressed, I’m not surprised.”
Steve Kerr on Andrew Wiggins’ impact and role on defense.
Game 3: Wed. 9pm/et on ABC pic.twitter.com/yz60fhnoKc
— NBA (@NBA) June 7, 2022
Wiggins played a big role in Golden State having the second-best defensive rating in the NBA during the regular season, but the only member of the Warriors to make an All-Defensive team was Draymond Green. Gary Payton II was the only other Warrior to receive a vote.
Wiggins said he took that personally.
“I didn’t get not one vote this year,” Wiggins said. “I took it personal in the playoffs. I was like this is my chance to really showcase what I can do and put my name on the radar.”
Klay Thompson being available for the entire season means the Warriors won’t have to be as reliant on Wiggins defensively, but he still figures to take on the toughest perimeter assignment on a nightly basis.
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