Mailbag: Do the Warriors need to add another center?

Plus, the latest on James Wiseman's injury status and why making the playoffs should remain a priority for the Warriors.

Answering some questions following the Warriors’ 125-109 win over the Houston Rockets night at Chase Center. As always, thanks to everyone who submitted questions. You can contribute to future mailbags by sending questions to me on Twitter (@wcgoldberg) or by email (wgoldberg@bayareanewsgroup.com).

Any update on Wiseman’s injury? — Tim Sheehan.

After suffering a right knee injury in the second quarter of Saturday night’s win over the Houston Rockets, Wiseman will undergo an MRI soon, after which we will know more. An extended absence would be a bummer for Wiseman, who seemed to be on the verge of a breakthrough during this up-and-down rookie season, though a few teammates who spoke with Wiseman said after the game he was in good spirits. If he does miss time, the Warriors plan to start Kevon Looney at center and deploy Juan Toscano-Anderson and Draymond Green in small-ball lineups.

The Warriors — and this is going to come as a shock — need another big. — Brian Witt.

I’ve been arguing this point since February, when the Warriors were without both Wiseman and Looney for a long stretch. While Wiseman is the team’s long-term starting center and Looney is a capable backup, if either goes down Golden State is suddenly shorthanded — especially true since Alen Smailagaic is not yet ready to contribute meaningful minutes. This front office doesn’t need to add a big man who will play every night, but one who can be used in case of emergency. However, I don’t see that happening any time soon. The Warriors cut their luxury tax bill at the trade deadline and are in no rush to add a 15th player to the roster. When Gary Payton II’s 10-day contract expires, it will be interesting to see what direction the Warriors go in then.

I don’t see how getting swept in the first round is going to help this supporting cast stop making these kinds of plays over and over. Tank, get better talent. — @Os2861551598.

This was in reference to Friday’s loss to the Wizards, but it’s worth getting to here. After beating the Rockets, the Warriors have a 1.5-game lead over the Pelicans for the 10th seed and final spot in the play-in tournament and are within a half-game of the Spurs for the ninth seed. The playoffs are still in reach and, as Kent Bazemore said after the game: “If you have the best player on your team, we’ll take our chances.” Of course, he was referring to Curry, who has scored at least 30 points in each of his last six games. Curry is in his prime and has ample postseason experience. The same can’t be said for Golden State’s other core players such as Andrew Wiggins, Wiseman and Jordan Poole. Getting playoff experience this season is important if the Warriors are going to make the leap back to contender status next season.