Warriors' Andrew Wiggins Hopeful for Quick Return, Says Conditioning Isn't 'Terrible'

Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins has rejoined the team after a lengthy absence to address a personal matter, and he's hopeful to be back on the court sooner rather than later.

While speaking to reporters for the first time, Wiggins said his conditioning is "not terrible" and added, "I don't think it will be too long before I'm out there."

Tuesday's matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder will mark the 23rd consecutive game Wiggins has missed. The Warriors will have just two more regular-season games before the playoffs begin, giving Wiggins limited opportunities to get his legs under him.

The 28-year-old said he felt that he "was in a safe place" to be able to return to the team, and while he was hopeful about the possibility to be back before the end of the season, his decision was always based around his family situation.

"When you're in a certain situation and your family needs your and requires your attention and your love, that's my first priority. … Family's always first for me," Wiggins said.

The 2014 No. 1 overall pick was also forced to miss 20 games earlier in the season with various ailments, namely left foot soreness, a strained adductor and a bout with a non-COVID-19 illness. In his 37 appearances, he's averaged 17.1 points and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 39.6 percent from three-point range.

Wiggins is known to be the Warriors' best wing defender, and he was an essential part of the team's run to the 2022 NBA championship. At 41-38 entering Tuesday's game, Golden State is in a four-way tie in the loss column for the fifth spot in the Western Conference.

The Warriors are surely hoping to have Wiggins available and at full strength as they try to chase a second straight title.