2017 NBA draft grades: Justin Patton pick provides plenty of upside for Timberwolves
The Timberwolves currently possess one of the most attractive, young rosters in the league. They have enough to build around with Karl-Anthony Towns anchoring the offense and protecting the rim, along with a supporting cast of budding stars like Andrew Wiggins, Zach Lavine, and Ricky Rubio. Minnesota also features a veteran defensive-minded coach, Tom Thibodeau.
Minnesota drafted playmaking Providence point guard, Kris Dunn, with the No. 5 pick last year to add depth to their backcourt. Dunn's rookie campaign was disappointing, posting 3.8 PPG, 2.4 APG, and 2.1 RPG on an average of 17 minutes per game.
In what looks to be a historically deep draft, the Timberwolves look to add another valuable piece to learn fast and quickly contribute to their already promising young squad.
Here's the full list of picks the Timberwolves hold in the 2017 draft, which will be updated with grades and analysis as each selection is made.
2017 NBA Draft Grades: Pick-By-Pick Analysis
Round 1, Pick 16 (No. 16 overall): Justin Patton, C, Creighton
Patton is a high-upside prospect who makes a lot of sense for Minnesota here. When you consider this selection in the context of the Wolves’ extremely favorable move to add Jimmy Butler, getting this pick back and landing a player with around as much long-term potential as any of the assets Minnesota surrendered is a big win. Patton has a lot of talent, particularly on offense, and will not need to be rushed thanks to the presence of Karl-Anthony Towns. This is the perfect risk for the Wolves to take. — Jeremy Woo
GRADE: A–
