I don’t think it is being overly melodramatic to say that tonight’s NBA draft is the most consequential one for the Wolves in over a decade. It is very deep, and Minnesota is staring at the distinct possibility of losing their superstar and two first-round picks over the next three years.
But let’s think happy thoughts. As Kevin McHale himself notes, the Wolves are very likely to choose a player who will provide immediate help next season. I’d like to hear your take on who you are crossing your fingers for and who you are dreading gets landed when Commissioner Stern makes the announcement this evening.
Based on various folks I’ve talked to and some limited viewing, here’s my thumbnail take. Oden and Durant are gone, of course, and unless Atlanta comes back into the picture with the #3 pick, so are Horford and Conley. There are a clump of players from #5-10 that include Yi, Jeff Green, Corey Brewer, Brandan Wright, Noah, and Spencer Hawes, with some folks like Al Thornton and Julian Wright also considered as a reach. Here’s my order:
Green–The most NBA-ready. A legit large 3 who Fred Hoiberg thinks is versatile and smart, coming out of a quality, defensive-oriented college program.
Brewer–A lock-down defender who probably doesn’t need the ball, but isn’t afraid to take the big shot if necessary. For those and other reasons, is a good fit with a Foye-McCants backcourt if the Wolves decide to go small and athletic.
Yi–I worry about rumors that he’ll be unhappy in a city without a significant Asian population, reportedly trying to discourage both Minnesota and Milwaukee from drafting him. But from the tape I’ve seen has size and skills that are rarely combined.
Noah–How ironic that he’d be the perfect complement to KG; someone who emphasizes defense and quickness in the paint and is a heady ballplayer who knows how to win.
Thornton–Rugged and NBA-ready.
The pick I dread is Hawes. It certainly isn’t his fault, but when was the last time that a large white guy taken in the first 10 picks fulfilled the hype? How many examples can you name that didn’t? (From Koncak and Kleine in the 80s to Darko in the aughts with Big Country
Reeves in between, I can name about a dozen without straining.)
And for all your really smart NCAA types, it wouldn’t hurt to hear who might be available and helpful at 41.
Thanks.
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