Warriors Saw Lamelo as More Talented But Drafted for Need

[CelticsElite]

The Golden State Warriors selected James Wiseman at No. 2 ahead of LaMelo Ball, who went No. 3 to the Charlotte Hornets.

The Warriors reportedly viewed Wiseman as the better fit at center, but may have considered Ball the more talented prospect.

"From what I was told, they saw [LaMelo] as the most talented player in the draft, but the fit made more sense with Wiseman," said Marcus Thompson of The Athletic. "It wasn't like they weren't on him."

Through his first 12 games, Ball is averaging 11.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 5.9 assists in 25.3 minutes. Wiseman is averaging 10.6 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 20.7 minutes. Ball has a PER of 18.0 compared to 12.5 for Wiseman.

https://theathletic.com/podcast/8-the-nba-show/

[Moranis]

Loser mentality.  Can't do that with the 2nd pick in the draft.

[Tr1boy]

teams never learn from Jordan/Bryant draft mishaps

Talent comes 1st.  You can always trade down too

[RPGenerate]

For such a well-run organization like the Warriors, this seems like a horrible thing to let leak through the media. Not only does this show that the team passed on a prospect they deem more talented than the one they picked, this must make Wiseman feel a bit insulted.