Andrew Wiggins. Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Injury news could spell trouble for Warriors

By Ethan Scott | Last updated 5/12/23

Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins is coming off his best performance since returning from a long absence for personal reasons. In Game 5 against the Los Angeles Lakers, he posted 25 points (55% shooting), seven rebounds and five assists.

However, Wiggins' injury during the final six minutes of the fourth quarter, suffered while going for an offensive rebound, raises concerns about his readiness for the remainder of this series. The Western Conference semifinals resume Friday night at Los Angeles, which leads the series, 3-2.

According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, Wiggins is questionable due to a cartilage fracture.

Andrew Wiggins appeared to first show rib discomfort after this box out crack of LeBron James in the middle of the fourth quarter. Kept grabbing at his ribs the next few minutes. Costal cartilage fracture. His Game 6 status is in question.

Here is a look. pic.twitter.com/9CDwETFvrJ
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) May 12, 2023

"Wiggins was in noticeable pain after the game, holding his side at the locker and moving gingerly," The Athletic reported, adding, "As he left the locker room, [Wiggins] said he would be fine and that he expected to play [Game 6]."

Wiggins guards LeBron James on every possession and is an efficient scorer and relentless rebounder. His absence or reduced effectiveness because of the injury could spell trouble for the Warriors.

On a positive note for Warriors fans, Golden State has navigated this type of injury before. During the 2019 NBA Finals against the Toronto Raptors, Kevon Looney played through a cartilage injury.

It's no secret Golden State needs Wiggins to complete a 3-1 comeback against the Lakers. If he's not at 100 percent, Moses Moody, Gary Payton II and the seldom-used Jonathan Kuminga must rise to the occasion.

Regardless of Wiggins' condition, expect the defending NBA champs to be prepared and confident. Over the past decade, no team has managed adversity more effectively than the Warriors.

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