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After being eliminated by the Lakers in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals, Warriors coach Steve Kerr had high praise for Andrew Wiggins. Despite only scoring 6 points, Wiggins played through a painful injury and did everything he could to make an impact on the game.

“It has been a difficult season for Wiggs in a lot of ways but he’s always there for us. That’s why we love him and need him,” Kerr said in the postgame press conference.

Wiggins scored 6 points (2/8 field goals, 0/3 three-pointers) for the Warriors in 28 minutes of play in Game 6.

Wiggins’ difficult season included missing two months of late season due to his father’s serious medical condition. But even with the challenges he faced, he remained committed to the team and his teammates.

The Warriors, defending NBA champions from the 2022 NBA Finals against the Celtics, entered this season as the 6-seed in the West. They eliminated the Kings in seven games in the first round, after trailing 2-0 to start the series.

In Game 6 against the Lakers, Steph Curry led the Warriors in scoring with 32 points, but Klay Thompson struggled, scoring just 8 points on 3-of-19 shooting. Despite the loss, Kerr’s words showed the team’s appreciation for Wiggins’ dedication and toughness throughout the season.