Keaton Wagler views his role with the Clippers as more of an opportunity than a pressure to perform.
This summer, the Los Angeles Clippers lucked out in the NBA Draft Lottery and came away with the fifth overall pick. It was the highest pick the Clippers could get in the draft because if they picked in the top four, the Indiana Pacers would own that selection.
With the fifth pick, the Clippers drafted guard Keaton Wagler out of Illinois. Wagler stood out as a prospect thanks to his offensive talent. He's a player who can shoot the ball at a high level and is capable of driving to the rim and scoring inside as well.
With the situation Los Angeles is in because of the investigation, punishments, and the recent trade of Kawhi Leonard, it is clear that Wagler is the next face of the franchise. During Clippers media day, he opened up about stepping into that role for the team, to which he responded by saying he doesn't feel any added pressure.
Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images“The biggest thing is just having fun with it. Those things are more of an opportunity than, ‘I have to do it.’ Seeing it as an opportunity to do the schedule release video, go to meet and greets," Wagler said. "It’s fun to be able to do that and get to know the fans well. It’s been a blast being able to do that.”
Keaton Wagler has been very active in outside team activities for the Clippers because of the position in which he was drafted and his projected success moving forward. As the season gets closer, the focus should be on improving to compete for the Rookie of the Year award.
It's clear that Wagler needs to gain some weight as his time in the NBA progresses, but that doesn't mean he can't be productive as a rookie. He will have a chance to play alongside multiple veterans who have had previous success in the league.
Troy Taormina-Imagn ImagesIn the Summer League, Wagler had his ups and downs, but he made it clear that his offensive ability can be a major asset to the Clippers in the future. If Wagler can gain weight to be able to compete with NBA-sized big men, he has the potential to become a complete guard on the offensive end.
Los Angeles may have a hard time finding young talent in the future because of the draft capital they lost and their financial situation, but if Keaton Wagler can develop into a player who can carry the load on offense, that could give them a major boost moving forward.
