In the Minnesota Timberwolves' loss, Keaton Wagler, a recently drafted fifth overall pick, undoubtedly had his worst game of the season. He scored 12 points and added six boards and three assists, but shot 2-for-11 (18.2%) from the field and 1-for-5 (20.0%) from beyond the arc. Wagler was pretty much a non-factor from the second the game clock started until the buzzer sounded.
However, confidence is key for rookies, or anyone in the early stages of their professional career, and Wagler cannot let the rough night take that away from him. The best thing he can do moving forward is brush it off and walk into Golden State’s territory with a clean slate.
If not, the early season struggles for Wagler could get significantly uglier than they already are, as he’s now shooting 28.6% from the field on the year.
Keaton Wagler must continue to remain aggressive on offense for the Clippers
Moving forward, after the most disappointing performance of his young career, the LA Clippers’ coaching staff must keep reminding Keaton Wagler of one thing: Do not stop shooting the ball. Wagler needs to be in attack mode from start to finish, and remember he has the ultimate green light.
This is crucial for him, as opportunities to put points on the board will come his way. Wagler has to avoid settling for what the defense is giving him and being more passive than he needs to be.
For what it’s worth, Wagler is no stranger to bouncing back. He did it many times in college for the Illinois Fighting Illini, and even in the summer league, after one of the worst debuts imaginable. The 19-year-old now has to do it again in the pros, which will be his biggest test so far.
Additionally, Wagler keeping his foot on the gas is needed for the Clippers in scoring. Without scorers and three-point shooters like Brandon Ingram, Max Strus, Bradley Beal, and Jordan Miller, LA is depending on the rookie to deliver buckets regularly. That's reflected in his ridiculous usage percentage of 25.8 (second-highest on the team among players with 50+ minutes) and his second-best scoring average of 14.4.
It's hard to say how bad the Clippers’ offense could get if Wagler’s confidence is hindered from here on out.
That said, Sunday, Nov. 1st, is a highly anticipated game for Wagler. Fans worldwide are eager to see how the young guard will follow up on his outing against Minnesota.
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