Report: Warriors ‘would likely’ draft Edwards if available originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea
Anthony Edwards. James Wiseman. LaMelo Ball.
Those three prospects are seen as the top-three players in the 2020 draft class. Each has upside and each has question marks that come with him. The Warriors, who own the No. 2 pick in the draft, have been connected to all three prospects, although there have been more whispers surrounding Wiseman of late.
However, it appears Edwards could be their guy.
The San Francisco Chronicle’s Connor Letourneau reported Friday that the Warriors “would likely” draft Edwards if he’s available at No. 2 and that they view him as a guy who can be the “face of the franchise” under the right circumstances.
Edwards is a talented 6-foot-5 wing who is an explosive offensive player with strength, athleticism and good shooting ability. Edwards is a three-level scorer who is a load to handle in transition. He can be effective both with or without the ball in his hands. He’s a good pull-up shooter who can knock down a three off the bounce, rise above defenders in the mid-range or use his strength to get all the way to the rim.
While his scoring ability is tantalizing, some scouts have questions about Edwards’ mentality and ability to lock-in on the defensive end of the floor.
There is little doubt that his raw scoring ability will translate to the NBA, though.
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The Warriors have been tied to just about every prospect in the draft, meaning no one around the league has a clear idea of what they want to do or what prospects are atop their board.
Golden State reportedly is “high” on Deni Avdija and Devin Vassell and will look to explore trade down scenarios in the draft. If the Warriors are unable to find a deal they like to move down a few spots, will they take Wiseman or Edwards? Avdija also certainly will be in the conversation at No. 2.
As the Warriors prepare to reboot their dynasty, they have a golden opportunity with the No. 2 pick. President of basketball operations Bob Myers must find a player who can help contribute to a title run this season and grow into a star who can take the mantle from Steph Curry when his prime is over.
Is that guy Edwards? It’s possible. But there’s been too much draft smoke around the Warriors to know anything for sure.
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