Kerr tempers expectations for Warriors top pick Wiseman

The Warriors nearly two weeks ago selected James Wiseman with the No. 2 overall pick in the NBA draft.

But just because the franchise believes he is a "once-in-a-decade" type of player, that does not mean he will start from Day 1.

Steve Kerr could end up going with Kevon Looney or Marquese Chriss when Golden State opens the regular season.

"We have multiple options with Looney and Marquese and James. We anticipate all three of them playing," the Warriors coach said on a Tuesday afternoon conference call. "As always, we'll figure out who starts and who plays in what role as we go.

"Looney learned over his first couple of years, he learned the ropes at the five. Looney is going to be so much more advanced than James will be defensively. James has a lot to catch up on."

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How Wiseman looks during training camp practices and the Warriors' three exhibition games significantly will impact the coaching staff's decision.

The 19-year-old has not played in a game since Nov. 12, 2019 when his Memphis Tigers lost to the Oregon Ducks. That was well over a year ago.

"But James' potential athletically is so dramatic that I imagine he'll have a chance to step in and help us because he's so athletic and dynamic," Kerr said. "But there's a ton to learn, and he doesn't have the value of a summer league, a whole summer of workouts.

"A lot to catch up on in every respect."

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Warriors fans understandably are extremely excited to see what Wiseman can do and what he brings to the table.

But he is far from a finished product, and it would be unfair to expect him to consistently produce, let alone dominate.

"I'm excited for James, but also want to preach caution for everybody not to expect too much too soon because we're just throwing him right into the fire," Kerr said. "He played three college games. He's got a lot of things to learn."

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