When the LA Clippers traded Kawhi Leonard for Brandon Ingram, they envisioned him as their next star. However, with his Achilles injury, the season may have seemed lost before it even began.
Still, Ingram’s absence could prove crucial to the development of rookie Keaton Wagler, particularly when it comes to his greatest strength: the ability to score points.
The LA Clippers’ injury route can open a backcourt spot in the starting five
Brandon Ingram (partially torn Achilles tendon), Max Strus (partially torn plantar fascia in his right foot), Bradley Beal (knee inflammation), Jordan Miller (torn left rotator cuff), are all currently sidelined, and aren't going to be ready to start the year.
The battle for minutes at the guard and small forward positions has no winners so far, only losers. Or, more precisely, no one among them is a winner, because the next man up could benefit greatly from this situation. He could not only earn significant playing time, but also secure a starting spot and a real chance to become the second offensive option behind Darius Garland, who cannot carry the entire weight of the Clippers' offense on his own.
While Rui Hachimura can contribute with his outside shooting and physical presence, the team desperately needs another player who can create offense with the ball in his hands. And rookie Keaton Wagler could be exactly what they're looking for.
Keaton Wagler can be the much-needed scorer for the Clippers
Keaton Wagler was the fifth overall pick in this year's draft, and he entered the NBA knowing he still had work to do to refine his game and build the physique to succeed at the next level.
He was one of the best playmakers in college basketball at Illinois, where he emerged as the team's primary offensive option amid a series of injuries. His breakout freshman season helped lead the Fighting Illini to the NCAA Final Four.
This summer, he began to find his groove, putting up a strong 26 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists in the Summer League finale.
Then came the preseason: facing tougher competition, he hit a game-winning buzzer-beater against the Warriors. Still, he struggled from deep, going just 3-for-17 before the final game. Against the Nuggets, he made his first start and shot 3-for-7 from deep, finishing with 12 points and four assists without committing a single turnover in his most efficient preseason performance. He also logged a team-high 28 minutes and looked noticeably more confident than in his first two appearances.
So, with the LA Clippers' season opener approaching, they need to fill the scoring/three-point shooting role alongside Darius Garland. And the Clippers may already have their ideal candidate. With an opportunity to develop a promising young talent while also addressing an immediate need, there's no better player to step into that role than rookie Keaton Wagler.
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