Memphis Center Wiseman Emerges as Clear No. 1 Pick

The 2020 NBA Draft is rapidly approaching and it appears that James Wiseman is near the top of everyone’s board. According to Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman revealed that the Timberwolves are signaling that they are prepared to make the Memphis big man the top selection.

On Friday, Wasserman reported that a source explained that the Wolves’ interest in Wiseman could be used to leverage the Hornets into a trade.

Multiple sources have told Bleacher Report the name they keep hearing now for the Timberwolves is James Wiseman. “Some within the Golden State Warriors think Wiseman is going No. 1, whether Minnesota keeps the pick or not,” one source plugged into the conversation said.

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However, sources also say the Charlotte Hornets “want Wiseman badly,” a plausible belief given the team’s established backcourt and need for a big man.

The Warriors, who possess the No. 2 pick, could face an interesting decision if Wiseman is off the board. Wasserman’s source explained that Golden State could be pressured into selecting LaMelo Ball in that scenario.

A source told Bleacher Report there is a rumor circulating that Warriors ownership could pressure the front office to select Ball if Wiseman is gone. Another source close to Golden State indicates there are both pro-Ball and anti-Ball voices inside the front office.

Wiseman played in just three games as a freshman at Memphis. In those outings, he averaged 19.7 points and 10.7 rebounds per game.

You can read the full story from Wasserman at Bleacher Report.