Typically, when a prospect gets drafted to the big league, organizations limit them in certain ways. Whether that’s having a cap on the shots they take, minutes they play, or overall role they have, it’s rare for a rookie to jump into the mix and partake in an environment that allows them to be completely free on both sides of the ball.
There are exceptions, of course, and LA Clippers’ recently drafted fifth overall pick, Keaton Wagler, is expected to be one of them. According to Joey Linn, an independent beat writer for the Clippers, Wagler is not going to be given a short leash.
That could mean various things, particularly on offense, but Wagler being in such a situation is excellent for the present, and even better for the future.
The Clippers are putting Wagler in a position to succeed
The assumption when Keaton Wagler was drafted is that Tyronn Lue would hold him back. This is because it’s been the case over the years, as Lue is a coach who prioritizes veterans, superstars, and winning over development.
Just look at how guys like Moussa Diabate and Brandon Boston Jr. panned out through the Clippers’ system.
With Wagler, though, the LA Clippers’ front office understands the type of talent they have on the roster, and more so the potential he has within.
At his best, Wagler could easily become a superstar in the NBA. The scoring, playmaking, and defensive IQ are right in front of our very eyes.
However, the only way for him to get to a point where all of his attributes are maximized is if he is not held on a tightrope, and per Joey Linn’s report, that’s exactly what the Clippers are doing.
The process in between might not be pretty. He’s going to make mistakes, tough stretches may become present, and the 19-year-old could even enter a shooting slump, but at the end of the day he’ll end up shining.
Summer league is a perfect example. While he didn’t start the right way, the coaching staff never held him back. He kept being himself, and by the time all was said and done, Wagler finished with a combined 42 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists over the last two games.
Let’s hope the coaching staff progresses through the regular season the same way they’re entering. If so, the future is looking bright for Wagler.
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