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The Golden State Warriors have recalled rookie center Alen Smailagic from the G League for tonight’s game against the New York Knicks. If Smailagic plays, it will be his NBA debut.
Warriors just recalled Alen Smailagic. Possible he makes his NBA debut tonight vs Knicks, especially with Eric Paschall questionable.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 11, 2019
Smailagic, a 6-foot-10 19-year old, was drafted 39th overall by the Warriors, after playing last season for the Santa Cruz Warriors, Golden State’s G League affiliate. The organization liked him so much that they suppressed his minutes and held him out of showcases, to increase the chances of being the team that drafted him.
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Unfortunately for the rookie, a severe high ankle sprain at the start of training camp kept him sidelined for preseason and the start of the season. He only recently returned to the court, and was sent straight to Santa Cruz.
In 6 games and 21.8 minutes a night, Smailagic is averaging 12.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game, while shooting 33.3% on three-pointers.
The move comes a day after the team announced that fellow second-round pick Eric Paschall is questionable with hip soreness.