Minnesota Timberwolves Draft Review

Current Roster
PG: Ricky Rubio/Tyus Jones
SG: Andrew Wiggins
SF: Jimmy Butler
PF: Gorgui Dieng/Nemanja Bjelica
C: Karl Towns/Cole Aldrich

2017 Free Agents
Unrestricted
F Omri Casspi
C Adreian Payne
G Brandon Rush

Restricted
F Shabazz Muhammad

Who They Drafted
1-16 Justin Patton, C Creighton
After trading the number 7 pick in a package to get Jimmy Butler, the Timberwolves took Justin Patton, a high upside center that doesn't fit too well on their roster. The issue is that Patton, even if he reaches his potential, is a straight center which means he'd either have to play behind Karl Towns for 10-15 a night, or play beside him which would make Towns much less valuable. Patton, though not a super athlete, moves well and has a lot of nice tools, good hands and feet, as well as tremendous speed running the floor. When given the ball in a good spot he is a close to automatic finisher and has flashed a bit of range on his jumper. Defensively, he moves pretty well for a big guy and has great length, which he's used to block shots at a decent rate, though he's not elite in this area. As a rebounder, Patton leaves a lot to be desired, grabbing 13.8% of available rebounds, a bad number for a center. If he reaches his upside, Patton could be average on both ends of the court which doesn't seem like much but is a solid NBA player.

What They Need Going Forward
Shooting, shooting, shooting. With Butler now on the team the Wolves need to find better shooters at point guard and power forward. Ricky Rubio, as good of a player as he is, doesn't fit their current team needs and will likely be flipped for a better fit (Thad Young makes sense) or dumped for cap space so they can pursue Kyle Lowry, George Hill, Jrue Holiday, Jeff Teague, Paul Millsap, Patrick Patterson, or others.

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2017 NBA Draft: Quick First Round Overview

01. Philadelphia 76ers (from Boston): Markelle Fultz, PG Washington
The Sixers traded up for Fultz so obviously that is the pick they made. Fultz is the top prospect in the draft and one of the best point guard prospects to come around in a couple years. Fultz, Ben Simmons, and Joel Embiid are the Sixers core moving forward for the next decade.

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Lonzo Ball, PG UCLA
Any idea that the Lakers were drafting anyone but Lonzo Ball was just noise trying to generate a trade down. Ball fits well with the current Lakers roster, especially now that D'Angelo Russell has been traded.

03. Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum, SF/PF Duke
Unless they make a trade with this pick or either Jaylen Brown or Jae Crowder, it is hard not to see significant overlap with these players, all combo forwards that aren't elite shooters or tremendous rebounders. The way the Celtics roster is built, they still have the same glaring weaknesses as last year and haven't really added a new dimension to their team. Obviously, there could be some big deals coming but it is frustrating that they haven't done more with the assets they have.

04. Phoenix Suns: Josh Jackson, SF Kansas
The Suns, even when they were slotted to pick second, seem to have been locked in on Josh Jackson throughout the process and it is not hard to see why. Jackson fills the exact role the Suns need as a high motor defensive player that is comfortable filling a role on offense. However, as has been repeated ad nauseam, Jackson's jumpshot needs to be consistent or else he will always be an offensive liability in some sense.

05. Sacramento Kings: De'Aaron Fox, PG Kentucky
The Kings wanted Fox and made no secret of it, however they thankfully didn't try to trade up for him and still got their man. Fox has some issues to iron out, but as far as a talent and character, this is the kind of injection that the Kings have needed. Fox, and Buddy Hield as well, are notoriously hard workers and even if they don't become stars the culture shift in Sacramento is almost just as important.

06. Orlando Magic: Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF Florida State
While I am sure many will question the fit between Jonathan Isaac and Aaron Gordon but 1) not sure why a guy who can probably play three positions and guard 4 or 5 positions + shoot wouldn't fit with another guy that can guard multiple positions, and 2) If you've been drafting in the top ten for years, don't bother drafting for fit, draft the best players and, with the understandable exception of Dennis Smith, the Magic did that.

07. Chicago Bulls (from Minnesota): Lauri Markkanen, PF/C Arizona
Despite making a really bad trade, sending Jimmy Butler and #16 to the Timberwolves for this pick, Kris Dunn, and Zach LaVine, the Bulls made a quite obvious selection, filling their desperate need for shooting with one of, if not the best in the draft. Defensive issues will be obvious with Markkanen and Robin Lopez, however offensively Markkanen will open up so much for them offensively because he is such a threat from the outside.

08. New York Knicks: Frank Ntilikina, PG/SG Strasbourg
Long live the triangle. Frank Ntilikina is a big guard that can shoot and therefore the prototypical triangle point guard. This is actually a nice fit for Ntilikina, who will have his strengths maximized and his weaknesses minimized, as he isn't a true lead guard yet. For the Knicks, Dennis Smith was a clearly better prospect, but he doesn't fit as well in the vaunted triangle. I really like Ntilikina but New York may be regretting passing on Dennis Smith down the line.

09. Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith, PG North Carolina State
This is a perfect marriage of player and organization. Smith will have a chance to shine attacking the rim with all the space pick-and-pop with Dirk Nowitzki will give him, while Rick Carlisle will help Smith's effort issues. I love it when teams who don't frequently draft in the top ten swing for the fences and go after the star potential that is not available where they usually draft. This is exactly what the Mavericks did.

10. Portland Trail Blazers (from Sacramento): Zach Collins, PF/C Gonzaga
Collins made a ton of sense for the Trail Blazers at #15, a sentiment they apparently agreed with and didn't want to miss out on, as they traded the #15 and #20 to move up and draft him. Jusef Nurkic turned the Blazers season around last year, but he was unavailable, be it on the bench or injured, they suffered. Zach Collins is a different type of player than Nurkic, but he is a quality player and fits well with the rest of the roster because he can protect the rim (and help their guards on defense) and shoot from the outside (and help their guards on offense).

11. Charlotte Hornets: Malik Monk, SG Kentucky
This has to be the best case scenario for the Hornets, who need scorers from the guard position and that is what Monk does best. With Kemba Walker and Nic Batum in the backcourt already, Monk can start out as a sixth man that heats up off the bench and give the Hornets some punch that they have sorely needed. Also, Hornet's coach Steve Clifford is tremendous at making his defense work around specific players, which will help mask Monk's defensive deficiencies.

12. Detroit Pistons: Luke Kennard, SG Duke
This was another pick that was projected by many because it made complete sense. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is a restricted free agent likely to be in high demand and his backups are unproven and/or suspended to start next season. Kennard is an excellent shooter and high IQ player that can handle the ball and pass some, however his defense will need to improve in order to play starters minutes for Stan Van Gundy. One interesting point: the Pistons haven't been happy with Reggie Jackson and some think Kennard can play on the ball, might he be their point guard of the future?

13. Utah Jazz (from Denver): Donovan Mitchell, SG Louisville
The Jazz traded Trey Lyles and the 24th pick to move up for this selection. Mitchell is a combo guard with elite length (6-10 wingspan) and athletic ability (40.5-inch vertical) to go with an improved outside stroke and a dribble-drive attacking mindset. What position the Jazz are looking for Mitchell to play will be interesting, as they don't require as much from their point guards at other teams do, but as long as George Hill re-signs, Mitchell looks like a sixth man type that can play pressure defense and provide some scoring punch.

14. Miami Heat: Edrice "Bam" Adebayo, PF/C Kentucky
A surprise to many, the Heat drafted Adebayo in order to add depth to their frontcourt that they have mostly patched together with journeymen. Adebayo has more skill than he showed at Kentucky, but for all his physical gifts he had poor rebounding and defensive numbers, though he is a very good switcher and can finish lobs with ease. I just don't know what he brings to the Heat that they don't already have in Hassan Whiteside and Willie Reed.

15. Sacramento Kings (from Portland): Justin Jackson, SF North Carolina
The Kings are at it again. And by at it again I mean making smart moves. One way to help your young point guard with shooting issues? Surround him with smart players that can shoot. Justin Jackson can do both of those things after making himself into a very good shooter to go with his intelligence moving off the ball.

16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Chicago): Justin Patton, C Creighton
The Timberwolves got this pick in their robbery, I mean trade, with the Chicago Bulls and with it, they added big man depth. However, I don't really understand the rational behind this pick, as I see both Patton, Karl Towns, and Gorgui Dieng all as straight centers (though the Timberwolves seem to disagree) and shooting seems like a pretty big need now that they have swapped out Zach LaVine for Jimmy Butler. Patton has potential, but even if he reaches that potential it won't be very impactful if he can't find the floor.

17. Milwaukee Bucks: DJ Wilson, PF Michigan
With Jabari Parker's short term future determined (missing at least several months of the season) and his long term future questionable (two ACL tears) it makes alot of sense for the Bucks to add a versatile offensive player like DJ Wilson. Wilson is a nice balance of Milwaukee's other bigs, combining the length John Henson with the skill of Mirza Teletovic. Wilson should be better than both.

18. Indiana Pacers: TJ Leaf, PF UCLA
Skipping over the Pacers/white guy jokes, Indiana started their pre-post-Paul George rebuild by taking TJ Leaf. Leaf slots in as a rotational big man who offer skill off the bench. I don't think he will anything better than a liability defensively, but a rim protector like Myles Turner is the kind of guy you'd want him to play next to. I don't think the moves the needle for the Pacers at all.

19. Atlanta Hawks: John Collins, PF/C Wake Forest
After trading Dwight Howard and facing the very real possibility of Paul Millsap moving on, it seemed like a lock that they would draft a big man in this spot. However, they lucked out that a legit lottery-type talent in John Collins fell to them. Collins will contribute right away as an energy, big man off the bench and could develop into a starter down the line if Hawks University goes to work on his jumper and defense.

20. Sacramento Kings (from Portland): Harry Giles, PF/C Duke
This is an interesting pick, as a year ago if someone told you that Harry Giles would be drafted 20th overall, it would be considered one of the biggest steals in draft history. However, after yet another knee injury and a disappointing season at Duke, it is hard not to be a little disappointed with this pick for the Kings, especially with Jarrett Allen still available. However, the Kings need to take huge swings and this is the biggest swing they could take, and it could pay off.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Terrence Ferguson, SG/SF Adelaide
This is another great fit of player and team. The Thunder have done an excellent job developing players and will work with Ferguson to grow his game, while on the other hand Ferguson gives the Thunder a player who can both defend and shoot. They have good defenders and they have shooters, but none that can really do both.

22. Brooklyn Nets (from Washington): Jarrett Allen, C Texas
Despite not having a lottery pick two years in a row, the Nets have gotten two lottery talents that both fell, likely for injury reasons. Jarrett Allen has the frame of an elite defensive center and grew a lot of the course of his time at Texas, including showing off decent touch on his jumper. After just trading Brook Lopez, the Nets needed a center of the future and they got it in Allen.

23. Toronto Raptors (from LA Clippers): OG Anunoby, SF/PF Indiana
Anunoby, who likely fell due to his knee injury, is exactly what the Raptors have needed for years: a big wing that can defend the types of bruisers that have killed them in the past (see: LeBron James, Paul Pierce). Anunoby has a ways to go on offense, but his worst case scenario in Luc Mbah a Moute, which is pretty good for the number 23 pick.

24. Denver Nuggets (from Utah): Tyler Lydon, PF Syracuse
The Nuggets got this pick and Trey Lyles for the #13 pick and then drafted.... Another Trey Lyles? I like Lydon in a vacuum, he can really shoot and block shots, though he is obviously limited in some ways. However, with Lyles, Lydon, and Juancho Hernangomez on the roster, I don't really see the point, they all do similar things (though I think Hernangomez is a step way above them) not to mention Kenneth Faried is still on this team.

25. Philadelphia 76ers (from Orlando): Anzejs Pasecniks, Gran Canaria
The Sixers used some of their significant draft capital to move back into the first round to select the slipping Pasecniks, who they will presumably stash overseas as he works on his game. I like this pick because it shows that the Sixers are still future thinking even as they gear up to be more competitive next season.

26. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cleveland): Caleb Swanigan, C Purdue
This is another one I don't get. I don't think Caleb Swanigan can play anything but center, and with Jusef Nurkic and Zach Collins on the roster, when does he play? Also, his lack of mobility will hurt their already questionable defense. Swanigan can make it in the NBA but I don't see the fit here.

27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Brooklyn): Kyle Kuzma, PF Utah
Kuzma was a guy that the Lakers really liked and it is easy to see why, as shooting from the 4 spot is a big need for them and that is what Kuzma does (at least potentially, the results aren't always there), as well as passing and rebounding well. He isn't going to do anything for their terrible defense though.

28. Utah Jazz (from LA Lakers): Tony Bradley, C North Carolina
Bradley brings a different dimension from the other backup bigs on the Jazz roster, he is an excellent rebounder who plays below the rim but may have more skill than he showed at UNC. Very similar to a Jarnell Stokes-type player.

29. San Antonio Spurs: Derrick White, PG/SG Colorado
The Spurs once again get great value with Derrick White, who's experienced game and nice jumper will compliment the more mercurial Dejounte Murray very well in San Antonio's young backcourt.

30. Los Angeles Lakers (from Utah): Josh Hart, SG Villanova
This is a solid move by the Lakers, who need smart, defensive minded players on their roster. Hart is a solid all-around offensive player and tough defender who makes up what he lack in upside with ready-to-go talent.

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2016 NBA Draft: Mock Draft

I have no sources or inside information, just some (kinda) educated speculation:

01. Philadelphia 76ers: Ben Simmons, G/F LSU (6-10, 240) Age: 19

The Sixers are taking Simmons, that is 99% of a lock at this point, the only intrigue left is what Philadelphia does with their logjam of big men and if they acquire another lottery pick.  

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke (6-9, 196) Age: 18

Ingram is basically a lock here as well, though they have been making noise looking at some other players, I think that is just due diligence in case some team blows away with an offer for the #2 overall pick.

03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jaylen Brown, SF/PF California (6-7, 223) Age: 19

I still don't think the Celtics are taking Dragan Bender, and will most likely trade this pick, but if they use it they will try to sell that they are taking a star, but go with a player like Jaylen Brown, with a higher floor than say Marquese Chriss, but also has some upside as well.

04. Phoenix Suns: Marquese Chriss, PF Washington (6-10, 233) Age: 18

Dragan Bender would literally be the perfect fit for the Suns, but I am not sure Robert Sarver will stand for a top 5 pick that won't player right away. Ironically, Chriss isn't going to help much starting out either and has a significantly higher bust factor and not any more upside.

05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Kris Dunn, PG Providence (6-4, 205) Age: 22

I don't know if Ricky Rubio gets traded (it would be a mistake, in my opinion) but Dunn is the type of player that can play a role for Minnesota early on, especially playing with a guard like Zach LaVine. Most importantly, Dunn can defend his tail off, which will appeal to Tom Thibodeau.

06. New Orleans Pelicans: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky (6-4, 207) Age: 19

The Pelicans need to find more scoring and shot creation, which in theory is what Murray provides. Especially with Eric Gordon most likely departing in free agency, Murray could fill a similar role as a shooter and sometimes creator,

07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv (7-1, 225) Age: 18

This is obviously a no-brainer for Denver, who not only could really use a player like Bender but also have patience with and an affinity for International prospects.

08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma (6-5, 212) Age: 22

This is another no-brainer. There are major questions about just how good Hield can be in the NBA, but he is unlikely to bust completely and is a high character player that can help transform the Kings dysfunction. There are likely to be better players drafted after Hield, but with Sacramento I get swinging for a double, at this point they just need talent.

09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Jakob Poeltl, C Utah (7-1, 239) Age: 20

With Bismack Biyombo departing, Toronto can look to beef up their big man depth and draft a solid, well-rounded big man in Poeltl, though the Raptors are talented enough to go in pretty much any direction, minus point guard most likely.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Dejounte Murray, PG Washington (6-5, 170) Age: 19

Last year the Bucks drafted Rashad Vaughn way earlier than expected and you could defintely see them do that again with Murray, a raw prospect with upside but a looooong way to go,

11. Orlando Magic: Deyonta Davis, PF/C Michigan State (6-11, 237) Age: 19

Point guard is the main need for Orlando, but they don't seem to think so after they parted ways with their coach partially over Elfrid Payton. Davis has upside and a solid floor, but most of all he projects to compliment Orlando's current big men. 

12. Atlanta Hawks (from Utah): Domantas Sabonis, PF/C Gonzaga (6-11, 231) Age: 20

After trading Jeff Teague for this pick, the Hawks (who may yet trade up further) can look to address their need for big man depth. The Hawks were really bad on the glass last season, an area Sabonis excels at. Even better his high IQ and skill fits the Hawks system.

13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Timothe Luwawu, SF Mega Leks (6-7, 205) Age: 21

After power forward, a low-usage defensive wing/shooting wing is the Suns biggest need, so it would not be a shock for them to use one of their two lottery picks on a player like Timothe Luwawu.

14. Chicago Bulls: Wade Baldwin IV, PG Vanderbilt (6-4, 202) Age: 20

The Bulls finally pulled the plug on Derrick Rose and now have a Jerian Grant/Jose Calderon combo at point guard. While Grant has some value (his fit with Fred Hoiberg is as good as his fit in the triangle was bad) but neither he nor Calderon has the upside of Wade Baldwin, who would fit well with Jimmy Butler.

15. Denver Nuggets (from Houston): Henry Ellenson, PF/C Marquette (7-0, 242) Age: 19

If Dragan Bender isn't able to come over and play right away, Denver could look to get a more immediate contributor in Ellenson or the like.

16. Boston Celtics (from Dallas): Malachi Richardson, SG Syracuse (6-6, 200) Age: 20 

Someone is taking Richardson in the first round, likely in the top 20 and Boston (or whomever they trade with) seem like as likely a destination as any.

17. Memphis Grizzlies: Taurean Prince, SF/PF Baylor (6-8, 220) Age: 21

The Grizzlies are forever in a search for shooting and have built their team around tough defense in recent times. Prince projects to provide some of both.

18. Detroit Pistons: Denzel Valentine, SG Michigan State (6-6, 210) Age: 22

Valentine slides due to concerns about his knee. The local connection and Valentines fit in Stan Van Gundy's system make him too good to pass on.

19. Denver Nuggets (from Portland): Demetrius Jackson, PG Notre Dame (6-2, 194) Age: 21

Even with the strides that Emmanuel Mudiay took last season, the Nuggets still need to find him a back up and Jackson is great value here and an ideal fit as a backup point guard.

20. Brooklyn Nets (from Indiana): Tyler Ulis, PG Kentucky (5-10, 149) Age: 20

The Nets have the worst point guard situation in the league and desperately need something, anything there. Tyler Ulis is likely a backup but at least he can play point guard and has some tremendous intangibles.

21. Atlanta Hawks: Juan Hernangomez, PF Estudiantes (6-9, 220) Age: 20

With Paul Millsap entering the last year of his deal (most likely) and Al Horford a free agent to-be, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Hawks double on big men, especially if one with the potential of Hernangomez falling to them.

22. Sacramento Kings (from Charlotte): Malik Beasley, SG Florida State (6-5, 190) Age: 19

After trading Marco Bellineli to Charlotte for this pick, making there need for wings that can shoot and defend even more dire.

23. Boston Celtics: Damian Jones, C Vanderbilt (7-0, 244) Age: 20

Again, who knows if the Celtics actually use this pick but if they do, an athletic big man like Jones makes sense because he is significantly more physically talented than the rest of his team.

24. Philadelphia 76ers (from Miami): Patrick McCaw, SG UNLV (6-7, 185) Age: 20

The Sixers need wings that can shoot and defend, which is what McCaw projects to do, with some real upside as well.

25. Los Angeles Clippers: Malcolm Brogdon, SG Virginia (6-5, 223) Age: 23

Does it really matter who the Clippers draft here? He'll never play for Doc Rivers anyway. Still, if he did get to okay Malcolm Brogdon could help the Clippers in the backcourt with shooting, defense, and passing.

26. Philadelphia 76ers (from Oklahoma City): Furkan Korkmaz, SG Anadolu Efes (6-7, 185) Age: 18

The Sixers are unlikely to bring in three rookies from this draft, so unless they trade the pick they will likely look to stash an international. Korkmaz could go much higher in the draft, but also might fall do to the rise of other prospects.

27. Toronto Raptors: Ante Zizc, C Cibona Zagreb (7-0, 249) Age: 19

Zizic is another prospect but could go higher but also might fall. He has been extremely productive in Europe at a young age and has the skills and motor to be a backup center at least.

28. Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland): Ivica Zubac, C Mega Leks (7-1, 265) Age: 19

Yet another international guy that could go higher, Zubax is huge and has some idea what he is doing, which is more rare than you might think.

29. San Antonio Spurs: Cheick Diallo, C Kansas (6-9, 219) Age: 19

The Spurs' lack of athleticism was glaring in their playoff series loss to the Thunder, they need to find some big bodies that can move, especially as Tim Duncan's career comes to a close.

30. Golden State Warriors: DeAndre Bembry, SF Saint Joseph's (6-6, 207) Age: 21

The Warriors lack of depth was exposed somewhat against the Cavaliers, so they would be wise to continue to add and develop real contributors, not just projects or players who fall due to injury. DeAndre Bembry is a really good fit there with his offensive and defensive versatility.

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2016 NBA Mock Lottery

Now that we know the official draft order (which it turns out we already knew) and the top of the draft class seems to be crystallizing as far as who will be remaining in the draft and who will be returning to school. It is still to early to know very much about what will actually happen, but information has been slowly leaking out as to the strategies of both teams and players. After the first two picks in the draft (Brandon Ingram and Ben Simmons in some order), things could go off script quickly as teams have wildly differing views of the potential of this draft. Some value experience and production more, others look for upside and potential. Those two groups rarely intersect in this draft, leading to disparate rankings depending on what aspects you value more.

01. Philadelphia 76ers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke (6-9, 196) Age: 18

Once Sam Hinkie was ousted, it appeared conventional NBA wisdom was going to reign supreme, leading to the logical conclusion that Ben Simmons, the traditional "star-power" in the draft, the big name that could get fans excited and put rears in the seats would be the direction Philadelphia would look to go in. However, with the new that Simmons and his agent are trying to force their way to LA (as reported by Nick DePaula of The Vertical), it now appears that Ingram will be the direction they will go in, unless Simmons changes course and is willing to go to Philadelphia and be a model citizen and teammate. This isn't the worst thing for the Sixers, as Inrgam is a better fit on and off the court, mainly because he is a lock to play small forward and is the type of shooter that the Sixers have been desperate for, two things that cannot be said with certainty about Simmons.

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Ben Simmons, PF LSU (6-10, 240) Age: 19

This is an ideal scenario for the Lakers, as they get a highly marketable young player to fill the Mamba-sized left by Kobe Bryant and someone that will be easy to sell stars on playing with because he is such a willing and capable passer. The fit alongside Julius Randle is tenuous at best, and the dearth of shooting in LA is an issue, but those are all secondary concerns to LA. I would expect Simmons to be installed in a similar role as Draymond Green in new coach Luke Walton's DubSoCal offense. Defensively, he isn't a tenth of Green yet so there will be a need to figure things out around him there. LA will need a strong defensive center and role man to make best use of Simmons, as well as shooters to balance the floor and probably a good defender at small forward as well. Again, this is all of secondary concern to LA, who desperately need to re-ignite their franchise after the wasteland of the last couple seasons.

03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jakob Poeltl, C Utah (7-1, 239) Age: 20

I could be totally wrong, but I get the feeling there is no way that Dragan Bender is the number 3 pick or Boston Celtics have the rights to Dragan Bender by the end of the summer. Now that could mean they trade the pick as part of a package for an established player, or to someone who falls in love with a prospect and sees how ugly this draft is and tries to get the guy they think could be a star, which I don't see being Bender. It also means if the Celtics pick here, they aren't taking Bender. They could (and should, in my opinion) but I just don't see it. Danny Ainge has eschewed foreign players in the past and I don't know why Bender would change his mind considering he is so young and is getting few minutes right now. There is also the question of message, Ainge has been selling his fans on all these assets and making the big move to get a star for years, and hasn't really gotten close, nor have they made it out of the first round of the playoffs with their current roster either. Is Ainge really going to take a project big man that might not even come over right away and when he does, still not be ready? That seems unlikely. So if not Bender, and not a trade, who? There are a number of options, none of which is particularly appealing but Poeltl is the best of the bunch. He is a Steven Adams type of center that isn't flashy but has few weaknesses but makes winning plays. Poeltl is the kind of big man Boston has lacked since Brad Stevens' arrival. The fact that Ainge went to BYU and Poeltl played for Utah, well...

04. Phoenix Suns: Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv (7-1, 225) Age: 18

This would be ideal for Phoenix, as Bender is exactly the kind of player they need. A dirty-work type of guy who can defend at a high level and projects as a good enough shooter to space the floor. However, with Phoenix it is always dicey, how will they view themselves? As just a young piece away from contention, unwilling to wait to develop a player like Bender? If so, a more pro-ready player might be more of what they consider, such as Buddy Hield. However, if they are willing to be patient and form their team around a young core of Devin Booker and a prospect like Bender (as they should) then they will be looking a different batch of prospects, like Bender or Jaylen Brown. Seriously though, the marketing of the Killer Bs in Booker, Bender and Bledsoe? Worth it just for that. Then what if they traded up and drafted Brown? Then drafted Ben Bentil and Joel Bolomboy? Okay, I'll stop.

05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky (6-4, 207) Age: 19

The Timberwolves, exploding with young talent, will have a chance to add another peice to their world domination plan. With four of their starting five set, Minnesota could look towards a power forward to fill the void there, and players like Deyonta Davis and Marquese Chriss certainly make some sense there, they shouldn't force it in the power forward spot, especially since they might want a more veteran player there, via free agency. Instead, improving their shooting should be a priority. If Tom Thibodeau wants someone with more defensive potential that will be ready to step in early on, Buddy Hield makes a ton of sense. However, if they are targeting upside, Jamal Murray seems like a logical fit that could really help stabilize the second unit in the future. A sweet shooting combo guard that can create a little and would give them another scoring option on the perimeter. Murray is probably best suited to the bench, at least early on because he has yet to show he can consistent create against athletic defenders yet and wouldn't face the best of the best NBA guards playing second units.

06. New Orleans Pelicans: Kris Dunn, PG Providence (6-4, 205) Age: 22

Outside of Jrue Holiday, is there an above-average, healthy player on New Orleans' roster? Anthony Davis doesn't even fit into that category. The Pelicans have completely wasted a top five player with terrible trades, signings, and the possibly the league's worst medical staff. Now that they finally have a draft pick again, the Pelicans can start their rebuild, provided they can get out of their own first. Hield would make sense here, as would any of the power forwards in the draft. However if Kris Dunn falls this far (which seems likely given the lack of need for a point guard among the picks above), he seems like the most logical direction for New Orleans, that struggled to defend and create offense last season, two thing that Dunn should help with. Plus, with his size and length, Dunn should be able to function alongside Holiday, but without the pressures of leading the offense until ready.

07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Jaylen Brown, SF California (6-7, 223) Age: 19

The Nuggets have so many young players on their rosters and three picks in the first round of this draft, so they have a great deal of flexibility. One of the options they have with so much draft capital is to take a risk or two. Jaylen Brown is risky because he hasn't put it all together on the floor yet. However, his physical tools are outstanding and he fits into the small-ball revolution as a potential small forward. With Danilo Gallinari's future far from certain, a combo forward like Brown could be groomed as his replacement in a year or two, filling the role of shot creator and foul-drawer in Denver. It will also be crucial that Brown ends up a team where he isn't under pressure to be a large role right away and has the time to develop and ease into the league.

08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma (6-5, 212) Age: 22

The Kings have to be hoping that Hield is available here, he is really an ideal fit for what they need both on and off the court. Sacramento had a really big spacing issue last season, as well as another drama filled season in the front office, coaching staff, and players. Hield is as close to an NBA ready shooting guard as you are going to find, he is an excellent outside shooter and has the tools to be a good defensive player. Perhaps even more importantly, Hield is a high character, hard-working player that gets along well with teammates and would be a step in the right direction when it comes to rebuilding the culture in Sacramento.

09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Deyonta Davis, F/C Michigan (6-11, 237) Age: 19

The Raptors, benefiting from the Knicks mistakes, get a rare chance to add a top ten pick to a conference finals team. With Bismack Biyombo's impending free agency and a hole already existing at power forward for Toronto, they will have their choice of several big man options here if they so choose. I have always been an advocate for good teams swinging for the fences when given the chance to draft high, in which case Marquese Chriss or Skal Labissiere would be possibilities, has however if they wish to go a safer route, Henry Ellenson provides a more stable floor. In this scenario, they split the difference with Deyonta Davis, a physically blessed big man who still has a ton of room to grow, but also with the floor of a solid rebounder/defender with potential for a nice perimeter game with some polish down the road. Add to that the size to play center and you have a logical choice for Toronto.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Skal Labissiere, PF Kentucky (7-0, 216) Age: 20

The Bucks seem to favor high upside talent and the upside doesn't get much higher than Skal Labissiere. Also, because the two foundational young pieces on their roster (Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker) are both for the most part inside the three-point line players, it makes a lot of sense to look to add someone like Labissiere who has a wonderful stroke that should work from the three point line eventually. Labissiere is a work in progress in many areas, but Milwaukee has shown a willingness to draft and develop raw players and would seem to be a good landing place for Labissiere, who needs patience and confidence from a coach willing to us him in the areas he excels, things he didn't get at Kentucky.

11. Orlando Magic: Demetrius Jackson, PG Notre Dame (6-2, 194) Age: 21

Don't be surprised if this pick ends up in a deal, as Orlando seems done with rebuilding and want to go all in with free agency this summer and may look to trade for pieces as well. If they use this pick, they might shoot for the high upside talent GM Rob Hennigan has favored in the past of they could look for more instant contribution. Demetrius Jackson certainly has upside, but he is further along in his development than say a Marquese Chriss. Orlando clearly thinks Elfrid Payton is the point guard of their future (despite much evidence to the contrary) which was a primary reason for Scott Skiles resignation. However, they lack any kind of quality backup, which is a role Jackson should be able to play early on in his career. Also, because of his shooting ability and Payton's size, the two could easily play alongside one another, if Orlando insists on playing a point guard with a .478 TS%.

12. Utah Jazz: Wade Baldwin IV, PG Vanderbilt (6-3, 202) Age: 20

The Jazz missed out on the playoffs last season in large part because of terrible point guard play. Now, part of that wasn't there fault due to Dante Exum's unfortunate injury, but relying inexperienced Exum, coming off a serious knee injury seem pa the height of folly without a backup plan. Wade Baldwin IV probably isn't ready to lead an NBA offense, but in Utah he wouldn't have to. The Jazz have many creators on the wing who could supplement Baldwin until he is more comfortable as the lead guard, leaving him free to knock down 3s (something he did with a greater than 40% success rate in college) and use his size, athletic ability and absurd 6-11+ wingspan to defend. Both he and Exum can play alongside one another, giving Utah two versatile players how can both shoot and defend, something their point struggled to do last season.

13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Henry Ellenson, PF Marquette (7-0, 242) Age: 19

If they make more of a long term investment at power forward at pick 4, the Suns could use their second of three first rounders on a more immediate contributor, whether that be a wing like Timothe Luwawu or Denzel Valentine or a big man in the vein of Henry Ellenson. If their first pick is a safer prospect, they could take a high upside flier on the likes of Marquese Chriss or Skal Labissiere. Ellenson has a ways to go defensively, but he has the tools to be average in that area, which is all he would need to be because of his versatile offensive skillset and rebounding. Though he shot poorly from deep in college, Ellenson projects as an above-average stretch big with the additional playmaking and post-scoring abilities of a modern NBA big man.

14. Chicago Bulls: Marquese Chriss, PF Washington (6-10, 233) Age: 18

Though they will likely never admit to it, the Bulls are entering a different phase of their franchise history, one that is closer to rebuilding than contending. With the all but inevitable departures of Joakim Noah and Pau Gasol, the Bulls frontcourt will need to be rebuilt around Bobby Portis, Christiano Felicio, Taj Gibson, and Nikola Mirotic, the first two of which are unproven, while the latter two are flawed in one way or another. Marquese Chriss certainly has a higher upside than any of them, though he is still very early on in his development and might take some time to adjust and learn the NBA game. However, if it all clicks you have a tremendously athletic power forward that can both shoot the ball and attack the basket off the dribble. He isn't in the usual "proven college player" mold the Bulls like, but at this point he is too good to pass up on. The Bulls could also use a point guard and a wing that can both shoot and defend, meaning they will take a long look at the likes of Demetrius Jackson, Wade Baldwin IV, Timothe Luwawu, and Denzel Valentine.

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2016 NBA Mock Lottery (4/16)

Mock drafts prior to the reveling of the actual lottery and draft order are pretty silly, but since usually the changes are minor, we can at least gain a little insight into what things will look like on draft night and what teams may be thinking. This is what I believe, without any inside information, is most likely to happen at this exact moment subject to massive changes before draft night.

01. Philadelphia 76ers: Ben Simmons, PF LSU

Prior to Sam Hinkie's resignation, Brandon Ingram would have been the obvious choice here, however with Bryan Collangelo now in charge with presumably a mandate to make the Sixers competitive and marketable fast, it seems highly likely they will look to draft a more hyped, popular player who may be more ready to contribute from day one. Simmons is a poor fit, in my opinion, but with conventional wisdom now reigning once again in Philadelphia, Simmons seems likely to be the guy.

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke

While they may be more interested in landing a quote star un-quote in the draft, Ingram is a much more obvious fit in LA, where the Lakers are severely lacking in both defensive players and shooters. Ingram also doesn't overlap positionaly with Julius Randle like Simmons would. If the lottery holds true and it goes Sixers #1 and Lakers #2, I would expect LA to draft whomever Philadephia doesn't draft between  Ingram and Simmons and be completely happy with that.

03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jaylen Brown, SF California

This is the toughest pick to project, based on currant draft standing, because Boston is playoff team without a ton of obvious needs (excluding a true super-star, which you most likely aren't finding in this draft) so where do they go? Dragan Bender is the best prosper available (and the best in the draft, in my opinion) but he isn't a player likely to have an immediate impact and might not even come to the NBA right away. Add to that, the Celtics are sort of piled up in the frontcourt. Jaylen Brown, on the other hand, is also somewhat of a project but fits into the Celtics multiple offense and would be an intruiging 1-2 forward punch with Jae Crowder which would allow Boston to switch everything and be and even more threatening transition team. They could also trade the pick and throw everything off.

04. Phoenix Suns: Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv

A couple of wins late in the season dropped the Suns from the third best odds to the fourth, which could be the difference between getting one of the top tier of three prospects and not. In this scenario, if Boston is unwilling to take a project in Dragan Bender, the Suns could still luck out. After trading Markeiff Morris and now potentially losing Mirza Teletovic and Jon Leuer (backups at best) power forward is an area of longterm weakness in Phoenix. Bender is a stupendous prospect with special potential as a defender and the tools to become a versatile offensive player, just what Phoenix needs.

05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky

Aside from power forward, the Timberwolves have their starting five set (barring a Ricky Rubio trade) and with no power forward that really fits this draft range, they can look to something else they need: shooting and shot creation. Murray is an excellent shooter and while the jury may be out on his ability to consistently create at the next level, he has a good offensive feel and may fit better in the NBA where more space is available. If they trade Ricky Rubio, Kris Dunn could be and option, and if they believe a power forward is necessary, a versatile offensive player like Henry Ellenson could be an interesting fit with Karl-Anthony Towns.

06. New Orleans Pelicans: Kris Dunn, PG Providence

While Jrue Holiday, point guard, is one of New Orleans' two actually good players under contract, both he and Kris Dunn are big enough and have the defensive chops to defend shooting guards (in fact, Dunn is actually bigger than Eric Gordon) and Holiday can shoot well enough to make this pair work. Dunn is a great defenive prospect, a killer in transition, and a willing half-court player that should flourish as a third option in the more spacious NBA. Buddy Hield, as a more traditional shooting guard, is another option, as is a potential Ryan Anderson replacement in Henry Ellenson.

07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Henry Ellenson, PF Marquette

The Nuggets have a ton of big men, but none of their power forwards are particularly skilled offensively (unless you include Danillo Gallinari who is injured often and possibly trade-bait). Henry Ellenson is a versatile offensive player with potential as a three-point shooter. He is a project defensively, but Mike Malone is known to get the best out of such players. They have depth in most spots on their roster and could go in many ways but Ellenson makes a lot of sense as a compliment to Kenneth Faried at power forward.

08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma

This is a marriage of player and team that just needs to happen. Hield could (foolishly) go earlier but if he is there, or if the Kings can acquire him by trade, it is something that would be perfect for them both on and off the court. Hield is exactly the type of player Sacramento needs, a knockdown three point shooter that is terrific moving off the ball. He is also a high character individual and tireless worker, the type of leader that the Kings desperately need. Make it happen, Vlade Divac (but don't give up too much)

09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Marquese Chriss, PF Washington

The Raptors love taking high-upside projects, and while their thinking may change this picking this high, I doubt it. Marquese Chriss, with work, could seriously be their starting power forward of the future, something they aren't particularly set up with at this point. Chriss has the potential to be a dynamite offensive player that can shoot and drive. He is a raw player that very much needs to learn the game, but the tools are off the charts.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Jakob Poeltl, C Utah

Another perfect marriage of player/team. Since they made the change from Zaza Pachulia to Greg Monroe, the Bucks haven't been the same team. The need someone who an excell on the defensive glass, protect the rim, and set good screens, which are all areas that Poeltl could excel at. Monroe, if he isn't traded, could still be gone after next season, which would open the door for Poeltl full time. Last season, Milwaukee brought Monroe of the bench and started Miles Plumlee. Poeltl could do the same, and be much better than Plumlee.

11. Orlando Magic: Ivan Rabb, PF California

The Magic have big plans when it comes to adding free agents this summer, so they could trade this pick to save space or draft a stash prospect, however if they do go with a prospect that could play this year for them, power forward is an area they could address. Aaron Gordon is already blossoming into a star, but Jason Smith also played heavy minutes last season as his backup, which translates to you need another backup power forward, particularly since Smith is a free agent this summer. Ivan Rabb is a very solid player, smart and skilled. He is limit in some ways, but should be a good option for rebounding, defense, and some inside-out scoring off the bench.

12. Utah Jazz: Demetrius Jackson, PG Norte Dame

Even if Dante Exum returns to full strength next season, Utah will still need a point guard because the poo-poo platter of Shelvin Mack, Raul Neto, and Trey Burke just isn't going to cut it for a playoff team, especially if Exum (who has a ways to go himself) isn't back to full-strength. Demetrius Jackson is better than all those other options, a dynamic athlete that has a long track record of excellent outside shooting and tough defense. He could backup Exum or play alongside him, due to Exum's excellent size. Utah needs a point guard that can create, defend, and shoot, not just one of those things.

13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Timothe Luwawu, SF Mega Leks

With their second first round pick in the draft, the Suns can look to shore up another area of need, small forward (or power forward if they draft, say, Jaylen Brown with their earlier pick). With what appears to be three high-usage guards on the roster, the Suns need players to go with them that don't need the ball to be valueable. Timothe Luwawu looks to be that type of player, a versatile defensive wing with potential in that area as well as shooting the ball, where he has made great strides of late, however his low release is still somewhat of a question mark.

14. Chicago Bulls: Denzel Valentine, SG Michigan State

This seems like the kind of pick the Bulls seem to like. A decorated four year college player that can probably play very soon in his young career. Denzel Valentine is not without his faults (defense) but he seems like an ideal fit in Fred Hoiberg's offense because he is a knockdown shooter with tremendous vision and passing ability. Another option is fellow Spartan Deyonta Davis, who could be the first step in rebuilding the beleaguered Bulls frontcourt, once a source of so much depth, not possibly losing both Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah. The same could be said about Domantas Sabonis, who is the kind of skilled player that could excel under Hoiberg.

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How Do Brandon Ingram and Ben Simmons Fit With The Teams at the Top of the Draft?

Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram seem to have separated themselves in the battle for the number one overall pick (though don't count out a surprise either), so how do they fit on the teams that could potentially pick them?

Philadelphia 76ers

Simmons

With Jahlil Okafor, Nerlens Noel, and Joel Embiid currently on the roster, not to mention the similarly skilled Dario Saric likely coming to Philly next season, Simmons fit on the Sixers is not ideal, either from a roster construction standpoint, or on the floor. Simmons best position is power forward, where he would be completing with all four of those players for minutes. A trade could obviously happen if they really want to give the reigns to Simmons, but it is still uncertain whether he is actually more talented than those others and deserving of minutes over them. On the court, the fit is just as questionable, considering what Philly needs most is shooting and perimeter scoring, areas where Simmons will not be a help. Play him at power forward and you have to sit one of those other four, play him at small forward and you might have the worst spacing of all time. Defensively, if you played him next to Okafor you'd be awful, or if you played him on the perimeter more, it would create too much pressure on Okafor to cut off penetration. Simmons is undoubtedly talented, but his flaws match up with Philadelphia's flaws, at a position where they are log-jammed.

Ingram

As bad as Simmons fit is with the Sixers is, Ingram's is good. He fills a major hole at small forward for them and is a knock-down 40% three point shooter. He would be groomed to grow into a primary perimeter scorer alongside Philly's big men while providing them will valuable room to work on the block, or in pick and roll. Defensively, his length and toughness would be an asset to help shield Okafor from too much penetration, while his flaws, mainly struggling to score inside, wouldn't be an issue because they wouldn't need that of him. Philadelphia is several pieces away from being a competitive team, but Ingram's shooting and length on defense would be a boon to their competency.

Los Angeles Lakers

Simmons

The Lakers really don't have much in the way of sure-fire starting level players, D'Angelo Russell is the closest thing they have, but he will need to improve his defense to be a starter on a good team. Julius Randle has potential, but he might be best suited as a bench player that can take advantage of back-ups while being protected from defending starters. Simmons is just as questionable a defender and shooter as Randle, but he is a more creative offensive player that the Lakers can build their offense around, particularly with good shooters like Russell on the floor. Because their roster is such a blank slate, LA is an ideal location for Simmons, who is difficult fit into many existing offenses and is better suited being built around, which the Lakers presumably could do. If they draft Simmons, the Lakers will want to surround him and presumably Russell with plus shooters and defenders, as you'll have enough creators on the floor with those two, but defense and spacing would be potential issues. The only downside to Simmons in LA is the inevitable asinine comparisons to Magic Johnson.

Ingram

Ingram fits just as well in LA, which will have a Kobe Bryant-sized hole at small forward and are mostly a blank-slate when it comes to starter level players. Ingram's shooting and defensive potential would give the Lakers any number of ways to build, the most effective would be finding a strong pick-and-roll partner for Russell, a mobile, defensive center, and another wing-shooter. Spread the floor offensively, run pick-and-roll, with Ingram and another shooter spotting up, waiting for a kick-out to shoot or attack with the center waiting on the baseline. This is a very do-able offense where Ingram would be a key piece because he can shoot, attack close-outs and eventually run pick-and-roll himself as either the ball-handler or the screener.

Boston Celtics (via Brooklyn Nets)

Simmons

With how flexible Boston is both on the court and from an asset standpoint, Simmons would work with the Celtics simply because they would make it work. They have the pieces and creativity to either make their offense work around him or move players and picks to get players that work with him, if they are certain that he is the star they have been waiting for. As far as the current roster fit, Avery Bradley and Jae Crowder are absolutely ideal fits with Simmons because they can shoot and defend, areas where Simmons struggles significantly. Kelly Olynyk as center is an ideal offensive fit but their defense might be pretty terrible. For Boston, I think acquiring a defense and pick-and-roll proficient center (Dwight Howard perhaps?) and use Simmons as the ball-handler while playing Crowder, Bradley, and Isaiah Thomas could be a deadly offensive lineup that doesn't get killed defensively. 

Ingram

Like with Simmons, Boston will find a way to make it work with Ingram if they think he is a foundational piece. Ingram and Crowder would be a deadly interchangeable offensive and defense pairing, especially when Ingram gets stronger. Boston has so many players that can play in a multiplicity of ways, that adding a player like Ingram who can shoot, has amazing length, and should be able to handle the ball effectively and guard multiple positions down the line, would only serve to make them more versatile. An interesting side story with Ingram, and really Simmons too, is that neither is really what you would call a franchise changer, so Boston may look to move either in a package for a more proven superstar.

Phoenix Suns

Simmons

If Phoenix doesn't blowup their roster over the Summer, Simmons isn't an ideal fit. The Suns do have a  hole at power forward, but they already have a too many ballhandlers in the kitchen issue with Brandon Knight and Eric Bledsoe, both of whom can shoot but aren't exactly knockdown in that area. Now, if one of those two is traded it might be a better fit, but I still don't necessarily see it, Phoenix has imploded before because of struggles sharing the point guard duties, they need less ball-dominant players and more overall well-rounded offensive players. The Suns need more of a shooter/defender at power forward that doesn't need to ball to be effective, which isn't Simmons at all.

Ingram

Not to sound like a broken record, but Ingram again fits really well in Phoenix. He is a player that doesn't need the ball to succeed and can effect the game just by being on the floor. Playing Ingram at small forward, with a new power forward or P.J. Tucker next to him and Devin Booker around a Bledsoe Tyson Chandler pick and roll would be devastating and a return to the classic Suns style. Eventually, when Ingram is stronger (and in some match-ups now) and you can play him at power forward with all three of Phoenix's guards, that would be something to see indeed. If neither Simmons or Ingram end up in Phoenix, Dragan Bender would be nice longterm fit at power forward.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Simmons

Considering two of Minnesota's young starters are pretty ineffective shooters, adding Simmons who is a completely ineffective shooter would not be ideal. Karl-Anthony Towns is actually the ideal center to player next to Simmons because he can protect the rim and shoot, but Andrew Wiggins and Ricky Rubio would just a be a spacing mess, especially because Simmons needs the ball to be effective, making Rubio entirely redundant. If Minnesota decides to trade Rubio, then Simmons would be a more interesting fit, especially if the Timberwolves find a point guard that is a knock-down shooter, with Zach LaVine at shooting guard.

Ingram

The Timberwolves main need is shooting, though Ingram is not an ideal fit because play small forward right now, which is Andrew Wiggins best natural position. Once Ingram fills out, he could definitely see significant time at power forward, which would work really well with Wiggins, Towns, Rubio, and LaVine, however right now I think it still might not be ideal. Though you could potentially player Ingram as the shooting guard offensively and small forward defensively, with Wiggins doing the opposite. If they don't end up with Ingram or Simmons, what Minnesota needs is a knockdown shooter at off-guard that can also be a secondary creator, like what Jamal Murray would provide. Still, Ingram's shooting and length would be a definite plus addition to the Timberwolves

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2015 Draft Review: Minnesota Timbewolves

2015-16 Depth Chart

PG: Ricky Rubio/Tyus Jones/Lorenzo Brown

SG: Kevin Martin/Zach LaVine

SF: Andrew Wiggins/Shabazz Muhammad/Chase Budinger

PF: Gorgui Dieng/Adreian Payne/Anthony Bennett

C: Karl Towns/Nikola Pekovic

2015 Free Agents

PF Kevin Garnett

G Gary Neal

G Jorge Gutierrez (RFA)

C Arinze Onuaku (RFA)

C Justin Hamilton (RFA)

F Robbie Hummel (RFA)

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Kentucky center Karl-Anthony Towns 1st overall

The obvious pick and the correct one. Towns and Andrew Wiggins give Minnesota a pair of the most promising two-way players in the NBA both under the age of 21. The next step for Minnesota is filling out the roster around them and Ricky Rubio. Zach LaVine has shown that he can make 3s and score in transition, so his long-term fit at shooting guard seems solid. At power forward Adreian Payne needs to get the range he showed in college back or else he'll top out as an energy/defense big man off of the bench and Minnesota will need to find a more suitable power forward to play next to Towns. They seem to have given up on Anthony Bennett, but there is still a lot of talent there if a team can get him in shape and taking (and hopefully making) smart shots. Minnesota's top priority should be finding shooters to space the floor and another ball-handler/creator on the perimeter. With their next pick, Minnesota did just that.

Drafted Duke point guard Tyus Jones 24th overall

The Timberwolves used their two second round picks (31 and 36) to trade with Cleveland into the first round and select Jones. In the upper two-thirds of the first round, a player like Jones who is a below-average NBA athlete, is a risk but at this point that is mitigated because the expectation of Jones is to just be a very good backup to Ricky Rubio, which is what he is best suited to do. With LaVine clearly better suited playing off the ball, Minnesota had a need for a back-up point guard and because of their post-up heavy offense, a guard that can shoot and knows how to feed the post would be ideal. Jones fits that description very well, in his lone season at Duke Jones shot 38% on threes and 89% from the line, suggesting he can be an above-average shooter in the NBA. At Duke, Jones played with the best post player in the country, Jahlil Okafor, and was very good getting him the ball in the correct spots. Jones is also a polished ball-handler who always seems to make the correct decisions in the pick-and-roll; a Jones/Towns pick-and-pop could be a devastating attack to sustain offense when Rubio is on the bench. Therefore it is easy to see how Jones fits in Minnesota on the offensive end, and though defense is Jones' biggest weakness that should be mitigated some as Wiggins, LaVine, Payne, and Towns develop into the above-average or better defenders they have the potential to. This isn't a high upside pick because Jones is physically limited, but he fits what Minnesota wants to do and should be a quality backup for them. Jones, a Minnesota native, also provides the Wolves with some free local good will.

What to do next?

Assuming that Minnesota brings back Kevin Garnett as a player/mentor, they should be relatively quite in the free agent market because they have a lot of young players that need to get playing time and not a ton of pressure to win now. When Towns and Wiggins are ready to carry this team to the next level and they have one or two more lottery picks in the fold, perhaps next year, most likely 2017, that's when Minnesota should be filling holes with veterans and spending free agent money. This summer, their focus should be finding trade partners for Pekovic, Martin, and Bennett, looking for future assets or a more established back-up veteran or two in order to keep the team from becoming Garnett and the Muppet babies.

A bonus trade sure to never happen

Kevin Martin to Memphis for Courtney Lee

OR

Nikola Pekovic to Milwaukee for O.J. Mayo

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Final NBA Mock Draft

View image | gettyimages.com

With the draft just mere hours away, there is an incredible amount of uncertainty regarding every pick after number 1 overall. In addition, the picture is clouded even more by teams looking to trade up, trade down, trade their superstar, trade for a superstar, or even trade their whole roster. This mock draft is very very very likely to be completely in accurate, but that really isn't the point is it? Enjoy!

01. Minnesota Timberwolves: Karl Towns, C Kentucky (6-11, 250) Age: 19

This has become a near lock at this point and it would be very surprising if Minnesota went in any other direction. What is more interesting is if Minnesota will attempt any draft night deals involving Kevin Martin or Nikola Pekovic. 

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Jahlil Okafor, C Duke (6-11, 272) Age: 19

This is becoming more and more firm but still not a lock by any means. It seems that Kristaps Porzingis and D'Angelo Russell are the others in consideration. A trade is also a possibility, with L.A. supposedly trying to acquire DeMarcus Cousins.

03. Philadelphia 76ers: Mario Hezonja, G/F Barcelona (6-8, 200) Age: 20

Everyone is so sure that this pick will be Russell that it makes me feel like the exact opposite is going to happen. Philadelphia never lets any info out so if you read any rumors about who they are interested in, don't trust them. Porzingis, Hezonja, Mudiay, and Russell seem like the most like outcomes, with the two Euros being most likely in my mind, though Russell makes a lot of sense in a vacuum.

04. New York Knicks: D'Angelo Russell, SG Ohio State (6-5, 193) Age: 19

Whether it be trading their pick for someone like Eric Bledsoe or reaching for a fit in the triangle, it just seems like there is so much smoke around New York doing something besides what is expected that it will happen. Okafor, Russell, Porzingis, Mudiay, and Winslow are all possibilities if they do draft here, as are guys like Trey Lyles and Frank Kaminsky if New York goes off the board.

05. Orlando Magic: Kristaps Porzingis, PF Sevilla (7-2, 230) Age: 20

Winslow is the player that fits what Orlando has done in the last couple drafts, but Porzingis isn't a dissimilar type of intense, committed player either and has significantly more upside than Winslow. The Magic have also been rumored to be involved in a Cousins/Lakers trade, which would obviously change the landscape of their team greatly.

06. Sacramento Kings: Justice Winslow, G/F Duke (6-7, 222) Age: 19

First of all: who know what will happen with this roster in the next couple of days, it could be a completely different team by next week. Though Mudiay would be the smart pick, I get the feeling George Karl isn't particularly interested in developing a young point guard and would rather acquire one by trade (Lawson) or free agency (Rondo). Winslow can be a Rudy Gay replacement if he is traded, or play alongside him.

07. Denver Nuggets: Emmanuel Mudiay, PG Guandong (6-5, 200) Age: 19

Mudiay would be a steal at this point and would make trading Ty Lawson much easier. Even if Lawson isn't traded, Mudiay definitely has the size to play next to Lawson and would fill their hole at shooting guard. I could see them taking any of the guys that are drafted before them in this mock here, or moving up with the help of Lawson/Faried.

08. Detroit Pistons: Stanley Johnson, F Arizona (6-7, 242) Age: 19

Once they acquired Ersan Illysova, Detroit's number one need became clear: small forward. They would love Winslow or Hezonja if they fall, but Johnson's ability to shoot and defend multiple positions wouldn't be a bad consolation. Kelly Oubre and Sam Dekker are more off the board possibilities.

09. Charlotte Hornets: Frank Kaminsky, PF Wisconsin (7-1, 231) Age: 22

Al Jefferson opted in and Spencer Hawes was acquired by trade, but neither are long term options at center for Charlotte. Frank Kaminsky is the logical choice here though Willie Cauley-Stein is an option. Kaminsky is a perfect fit for this roster because of his ability to stretch the floor, something  Charlotte desperately needs.

10. Miami Heat: Myles Turner, C Texas (7-0, 239) Age: 19

This is just a hunch, but I think Miami may be looking at this pick as more of an asset than as chairman contributor. If they want early help, Kaminksy, Oubre, or Johnson would definitely help but Turner has a lot of long-term appeal and could be flipped pretty easily to a rebuilding team in exchange for a veteran.

11. Indiana Pacers: Willie Cauley-Stein, C Kentucky (7-1, 242) Age: 21

Larry Bird loves Cauley-Stein and this would be perfect scenario for them if Cauley-Stein falls to their pick. The Pacers want to play fast and Cauley-Stein would be much better for that over Roy Hibbert without having much if any of a defensive drop-off.

12. Utah Jazz: Devin Booker, SG Kentucky (6-6, 206) Age: 18
The Jazz have a really loaded roster but they're offense is built off of shooting and ball-movement, which suits Booker who can really shoot and is a smart player that moves the ball well. Kaminsky is a great fit here too because he can play alongside both Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors.

13. Phoenix Suns: Kelly Oubre, G/F Kansas (6-7, 203) Age: 19
The Suns could be in very different spot if they end up trading Eric Bledsoe for the number 4 pick, but if they stay here I'd expect them to look for frontcourt depth, big or wing. Oubre is the kind of player Phoenix likes and would be a nice compliment to T.J. Warren at small forward, I could see him in Gerald Green's role from last season.

14. Oklahoma City Thunder: Cameron Payne, PG Murray State (6-2, 183) Age: 20
The Thunder have a pretty loaded roster, but after next season they will have a need for a backup point guard. Cameron Payne strikes a nice balance between scoring and distributing with the requisite spot-up shooting ability to play next to Russell Westbrook on occasion.

15. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn): Bobby Portis, F/C Arkansas (6-11, 246) Age: 20
It seems unlikely that Atlanta would let Paul Millsap depart in free agency, but even if he stays their frontcourt is shallow. Portis can play either the four or the five and has range on his jumper, which would fit right into Atlanta's offense. A wing to replace the potentially departing DeMarre Carroll is another possibility.

16. Boston Celtics: Trey Lyles, F/C Kentucky (6-10, 241) Age: 19
Lyles isn't the best compliment to what the Celtics already have in their frontcourt, but teams view him as a lottery talent, so Boston may not be able to pass him up. Their biggest need is an athletic big man, so Kevon Looney and Christian Wood are possibilities. The latest rumor is Boston looking at Jordan Mickey here, but they might be able to get him with their second first rounder.

17. Milwaukee Bucks: Kevon Looney, PF UCLA (6-9, 222) Age: 19
After trading Illysova to the Pistons, the Bucks are light on "true" big men. Kevon Looney, as well as Christian Wood, are definitely Bucks-type players: long, versatile, and can shoot a little. A pure shooter like R.J. Hunter would also make sense for Milwaukee.

18. Houston Rockets (from New Orleans): Delon Wright, PG Utah (6-6, 181) Age: 23
This may be a surprise, but the Rockets put a lot of stock in statistical evaluations of prospects and Delon Wright, despite his age, rates as one of the best players in the draft. He is also a really good player and a great fit for Houston.

19. Washington Wizards: Jerian Grant, PG Notre Dame (6-4, 198) Age: 22
The Wizards would be ecstatic for the local product Jerian Grant to fall to them. He fits exactly what Washington needs, able to capably backup John Wall but also has the size to play next to him. A smallball lineup with Wall, Grant, and Brad Beal would be deadly.

20. Toronto Raptors: Christian Wood, PF UNLV (6-11, 216) Age: 19
Christian Wood is a very Raptors' type selection, he is long, athletic, and inconsistent. However, because they have been unafraid to draft much bigger projects before, I don't think Wood would scare them. He does have some real skills, blocking shots, rebounding, and shooting.

21. Dallas Mavericks: Tyus Jones, PG Duke (6-2, 185) Age: 19
The Mavericks don't ever play rookies anyway, so who they draft here will have time to acclimate themselves to Dallas' system. I think if you give Jones a year to learn a system he'd master it and be very good running their offense, either as a starter or more likely a backup.

22. Chicago Bulls: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, F Arizona (6-7, 211) Age: 20
Hollis-Jefferson could go much higher than this, so Chicago would be getting a steal if he fell this far. Not the type of shooter you'd expect a Fred Hoiberg team to want, but he is very good in transition and moving without the ball, both of which really would Hoiberg. Oh and Hollis-Jefferson is the best perimeter defender in the draft.

23. Portland Trail Blazers: R.J. Hunter, SG Georgia State (6-6, 185) Age: 21
Arron Afflalo declined his option and Wes Matthews is a free agent coming off of a torn Achilles, aka Portland might have a serious need at shooting guard in the very near future. Hunter isn't the defender Matthews is, but he is a similar level of shooter.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers: Sam Dekker, F Wisconsin (6-9, 219) Age: 21
Backup point guard is the biggest need for Cleveland, but if Dekker, who has top ten buzz, falls this far you'd have to think they'd pounce. With the way LeBron changes positional definition on your team, Dekker wouldn't have any problem playing with him at an interchangeable forward spot.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Guillermo Hernangomez, C Sevilla
Both Marc Gasol and Kosta Koufos are free agents, making center a big need for Memphis. Hernangomez might not be coming to the NBA next season, but he rates highly in statistical analysis, which Memphis uses a lot of.

26. San Antonio Spurs: Justin Anderson, SF Virginia (6-6, 231) Age: 21
Justin Anderson and the Spurs seem like a match made in heaven. Anderson is a strong, athletic defender who's jump shot is great as long as he remains consistent. San Antonio is great at getting the most out of players, especially as shooters.

27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Houston): Anthony Brown, G/F Stanford (6-7, 211) Age: 22
If the Lakers plan on rolling with Okafor and Julius Randle, they'll need shooting from somewhere else. Brown is one of the best shooters in the draft and is a solid defensive player as well.

28. Boston Celtics (from L.A. Clippers): Montrezl Harrell, PF Louisville (6-8, 253) Age: 21
The Celtics might prefer Mickey here, but Harrell is just too good to pass up and a perfect Brad Stevens player who competes, sets hard screens, communicates of defense, and can guard multiple positions.

29. Brooklyn Nets (from Atlanta Hawks): Jordan Mickey, PF LSU (6-8, 238) Age: 20
With Thaddeus Young electing free agency, the Nets suddenly only have last season's second rounder Cory Jefferson to play power forward for them. Mickey is a little on the short side, but has very long arms and excellent defensive potential.

30. Golden State Warriors: Rashad Vaughn, SG UNLV (6-5, 199) Age: 18
This pick is unlikely to be actually kept by the Warriors, who will look to package it with David Lee to convince someone to take him off their hands. Vaughn is the kind of player teams might be interested in trading for.

31. Minnesota Timberwolves: Michael Frazier II, SG Florida (6-4, 199) Age: 21

One of Minnesota's biggest weaknesses is shooting, which is Frazier's biggest strength. He is also a pretty good defender that could be a solid 3-and-D player off the bench for the Timberwolves.

32. Houston Rockets (from New York): Chris McCullough, PF Syracuse (6-9, 199) Age: 20

The Rockets have done a great job identifying under-appreciated assets in the draft, free agency, and the international market. McCullough will likely appeal to Houston because he can both shoot and block shots.

33. Boston Celtics (from Philadelphia): Robert Upshaw, C Washington (7-0, 258) Age: 21

A defensive anchor in the middle is exactly what Boston needs and what Upshaw offers. He has some off-the-court issues, but Danny Ainge isn't scared to take risks.

34. Los Angeles Lakers: Norman Powell, SG UCLA (6-4, 215) Age: 22

The Lakers have a need for reliable shot creators that can actually get the whole way to the rim. That is what Norman Powell is best at, plus he won't have to move very far.

35. Philadelphia 76ers (from Orlando): Terry Rozier, PG Louisville (6-2, 190) Age: 21

Rozier is exactly the kind of player Philly loves: athletic, tenacious defensively, and plays up and down. I would be surprising the Sixers didn't draft him, and he wasn't their starting point guard, provided they don't take one at 3.

36. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Sacramento) Cedi Osman, SF Anadolu Efes (6-8, 190) Age: 20

Minnesota has a lot of players and not a ton of space, instead of a throwaway pick that won't make the roster, it would make sense for them to look at a stash. Osman has a lot of natural talent, but needs to hone his shooting and get stronger.

37. Philadelphia 76ers (from Denver): Cliff Alexander, PF Kansas (6-9, 239) Age: 19

Another Sixers pick, another supreme athlete who plays very hard. Alexander was thought of as a top ten pick before the season, so this would be a smart gamble by Philadelphia.

38. Detroit Pistons: Jonathan Holmes, PF Texas (6-9, 242) Age: 22

Despite the acquisition of Illysova, Detroit still needs another power forward and Holmes would make sense because he is good at creating perimeter shots at his size. A backup center would also fit their roster needs.

39. Charlotte Hornets: Tyler Harvey, SG Eastern Washington (6-4, 181) Age: 21

The Hornets need shooting more than any team in the draft, especially in the backcourt. Tyler Harvey doesn't do much but shoot but he could carve our a Gary Neal-type career in the NBA. 

40. Miami Heat: Olivier Hanlan, G Boston College (6-4, 186) Age: 22

The Heat have an excellent starting lineup, but are painfully shallow. Olivier Hanlan is an excellent creator and scorer that would really work well as a bench combo guard.

41. Brooklyn Nets: Rakeem Christmas, F/C Syracuse (6-10, 242) Age: 23

The Nets really need depth in their frontcourt, particularly of the good defender variety. Rakeem Christmas is athletic and long, rebounds, defends, and is capable of scoring around the basket.

42. Utah Jazz: Nikola Milutinov, C Partizan (7-0, 220) Age: 20

The Jazz have a pretty full roster, so a stash prospect may be the direction they go in with their second round pick. Nikola Milutinov needs to get stronger and tough, but has a lot to like with mobility, touch, and footwork.

43. Indiana Pacers: Aaron White, PF Iowa (6-9, 220) Age: 22

The Pacers want to space the floor and play faster, two things White can (theoretically) do. He is great getting up and down the floor while also shooting a well on a limited number of threes last season. White rates as the most efficient scorer in the draft, so don't be surprised if an analytically leaning team takes him early than expected.

44. Phoenix Suns: Arturas Gudaitis, Zalgris (6-10, 253) Age: 22

Alex Len has been very promising but also injured a lot, Phoenix needs solid depth behind him. Arturas Gudaitis is an athletic big the can dunk, block shots, and rebound. Perfect for a backup center on a fast-paced team.

45. Boston Celtics: Andrew Harrison, SG Kentucky (6-6, 213) Age: 20

The Celtics have a lot of smaller backcourt players and size has never been Andrew Harrison's problem. Harrison is versatile offensively and defensively, something Brad Stevens values.

46. Milwaukee Bucks: Michael Qualls, SG Arkansas (6-5, 201) Age: 21

Qualls tore his ACL working out, but when healthy he is very much a Bucks player: long arms, athletic, plays hard. His injury would allow Milwaukee the ability to let him heal for a year, since they have a pretty dull rotation this season.

47. Philadelphia 76ers (from New Orleans): J.P. Tokoto, SG North Carolina (6-6, 196) Age: 21

Another Sixers-type guy. Tokoto is a great athlete and defensive player, who can also function as a secondary perimeter playmaker. A poor man's Andre Igoudala, someone Philly knows well.

48. Oklahoma City Thunder: Joseph Young, SG Oregon (6-2, 182) Age: 22

Any Thunder second rounder is probably going to be stashed overseas or in the D-League, but Joseph Young could be useful down the line due to his ability to shoot from all over the floor. A Westbrook/Young backcourt would work.

49. Washington Wizards: Jarrell Martin, PF LSU (6-9, 231) Age: 21

The Wizards desperately need a power forward that can space the floor and Martin has that potential, even if he hasn't really shown it consistently.

50. Atlanta Hawks (from Toronto): Darkari Johnson, C Kentucky (7-0, 265) Age: 21

More depth for Atlanta's frontcourt. Dakari Johnson is a poor athlete and would have to be a backup, but he is good scoring around the basket and rebounding.

51. Orlando Magic (from Chicago Bulls): Josh Richardson, SG Tennessee (6-6, 200) Age: 21

The Magic are light on shooters and Richardson showed to be an ability to make outside shots at an above-average rate. He is also a Magic-type player that loves to play tough defense.

52. Dallas Mavericks: Mouhammadou Jaiteh, C Nanterre (6-11, 247) Age: 20

The Mavericks roster is such an enigma at this point who knows what they really need. Jaiteh is big and has a nice mid-range jumper, but struggles defensively at times. Decent backup potential.

53. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Portland): Quinn Cook, PG Duke (6-2, 179) Age: 22

Backup point guard is a huge area of need for Cleveland, especially one that is able to create his own shot. Cook has played on and off the ball during his time at Duke and would fit what Cleveland wants to do on offense.

54. Utah Jazz (from Cleveland): Julian Washburn, SF UTEP (6-8, 205) Age: 23

This is simply depth for the Jazz, who really don't have a ton of space on their roster. Washburn has 3-and-D potential but needs to work on both.

55. San Antonio Spurs: Daniel Diez, SF San Sebastian (6-8, 216) Age: 22

Diez is an interesting international sleeper in the draft main for the reason that he can really shoot the ball. San Antonio would be stashing him overseas to see if more of his game develops.

56. New Orleans Pelicans (from Memphis): Richaun Holmes, F/C Bowling Green (6-10, 243) Age: 21

The Pelicans could lose Omer Asik to free agency and were thin in the frontcourt to begin with. Richaun Holmes could easily and deservedly go 20 picks higher and could backup Anthony Davis or play with him.

57. Denver Nuggets (from L.A. Clippers): Darion Atkins, PF Virginia (6-8, 240) Age: 22

Atkins is off the radar somewhat, but he is an excellent defender that would appeal to Michael Malone, Atkins might not even be a rotation player, but he would push teammates in practice and be a model defender in Malone's defense.

58. Philadelphia 76ers (from Houston): Alan Williams, C UCSB (6-8, 261) Age: 22

Williams is a big time sleeper because he has done nothing but dominate and rates very well analytically, despite lacking great size or athletic ability. 

59. Atlanta Hawks: T.J. McConnell, PG Arizona (6-2, 199) Age: 23

McConnell is a tough defender and playmaker who could be a solid third point guard. Atlanta has shown a liking for college performers in past second rounds.

60. Philadelphia 76ers (from Golden State Warriors): Chris Walker, F Florida (6-9, 208) Age: 20

This is another pick I think is very likely to happen. Chris "Sky" Walker was more "bench rider" at Florida, but their are few athletes in the world that compare to Walker.

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