2020 NBA Draft Prospects: Thread II

[Klomp]

With Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell entrenched as the faces of the franchise, a team could be tempted to draft with an eye on finding a skill set that complements those two at the top of the pecking order. The Wolves have a clear need for a defensive presence in the frontcourt next to Towns, and adding another strong defender on the wing wouldn’t hurt either. But Rosas said the Wolves will not be baited into drafting for need at No. 1.

“We’re super open-minded. Nobody’s off the board,” Rosas said. “We’re going to do incredible due diligence, whether it’s a point guard, whether it’s a big. I’m 100 percent in the camp of ‘find the best player with the best upside.’ That’s the path we’re going to take.”

https://theathletic.com/2034846/2020/09/04/wolves-no-1-pick-draft-options-lamelo-ball-anthony-edwards-trade-gersson-rosas/

[Klomp]

I know Wolves fans have PTSD when it comes to Okoro because of Dunn, Culver and Okogie being just role players, but the upside of the player archetype is guys like Butler, George and Leonard.

[shangrila]

I know Wolves fans have PTSD when it comes to Okoro because of Dunn, Culver and Okogie being just role players, but the upside of the player archetype is guys like Butler, George and Leonard.

One thing I read about Okoro (can't remember where now) is that, historically, you need to have above a 2STL% in college to be an elite defender in the league and Isaac doesn't (he's close, 1.7% overall and 1.9% in conference). Combine it with a poor reported wingspan (6-8 I've seen) and I think you can make a case that he's not the elite defensive prospect he's made out to be.

That's not to say he'll suck on that end. I'm sure he'll, at worst, be a good defender just based off his instincts and motor. But if his shot never comes around and his defence isn't elite, is he worth a lottery pick?

[Neeva]

I know Wolves fans have PTSD when it comes to Okoro because of Dunn, Culver and Okogie being just role players, but the upside of the player archetype is guys like Butler, George and Leonard.

One thing I read about Okoro (can't remember where now) is that, historically, you need to have above a 2STL% in college to be an elite defender in the league and Isaac doesn't (he's close, 1.7% overall and 1.9% in conference). Combine it with a poor reported wingspan (6-8 I've seen) and I think you can make a case that he's not the elite defensive prospect he's made out to be.

That's not to say he'll suck on that end. I'm sure he'll, at worst, be a good defender just based off his instincts and motor. But if his shot never comes around and his defence isn't elite, is he worth a lottery pick?

I would not be surprised if Okoro turns into another Nkilitina/Knox for NY and even if he turns out good that will lower the value for the inefficient chucker Barrett because Okoro will take his starting spot.

[shangrila]

I'm still not sold on taking Edwards #1, but I will say this to the people that compare him to Wiggins. There is a big difference in their skill set - Wiggins had a great 1st step put he didn't have the handle to drive the hoop off isolation. Edwards on the other hand has a much better handle to go along with his lethal 1st step.

Part of the reason we didn't get to see him driving to the hoop as much as we would expect last season was because Georgia had horrible spacing. Check out his teammates' stats, they didn't have any above average 3 point shooters to space the floor. I'm thinking with some better spacing and an NBA extended 3 point line, he would be able to attack the rim more and his fg % could improve considerably.

There's a few things about Edwards I've noticed since taking a deeper look at him.

In terms of the motor issues, I think it's largely on the defensive end. He does have lapses on the offensive side, where he makes careless passes and the like, and it sure as hell isn't a positive that his effort is only an issue on one end, but it is something he doesn't share with Wiggins. Andrew always seemed to need to be pushed to be engaged on either side. Anthony I think will be fine offensively, it's just about engaging him defensively.

In terms of the shooting issues, I've made the case a few times now that in our system it shouldn't be much of a problem so I won't rehash it here. What I will add is that he did show improvement here as the season went on. I don't know whether it was coaching, his own development or some better shooting from his teammates opening up the floor more (can't see team splits outside of conference and non-conf play) but he seemed to do a much better job of going downhill rather than settling for long 2s. It's still an issue but the signs are encouraging at least.

[Mattya]

Just in case people need more video here is a scrimmage from the Steph Curry camp with a lot of the top projected players this year and next year. Can’t take these as for sure evidence but I think generally the best players shine thru in these.

Watch on YouTube

[KGdaBom]

With Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell entrenched as the faces of the franchise, a team could be tempted to draft with an eye on finding a skill set that complements those two at the top of the pecking order. The Wolves have a clear need for a defensive presence in the frontcourt next to Towns, and adding another strong defender on the wing wouldn’t hurt either. But Rosas said the Wolves will not be baited into drafting for need at No. 1.

“We’re super open-minded. Nobody’s off the board,” Rosas said. “We’re going to do incredible due diligence, whether it’s a point guard, whether it’s a big. I’m 100 percent in the camp of ‘find the best player with the best upside.’ That’s the path we’re going to take.”

https://theathletic.com/2034846/2020/09/04/wolves-no-1-pick-draft-options-lamelo-ball-anthony-edwards-trade-gersson-rosas/

The way it should be. That said if they take Ball I will throw a brick at my TV.

[Mattya]

I think the thing for Cole Anthony that hurts him the most is that he is not a big point guard and he is a two foot jumper. Probably why he struggles to finish inside, at least this year.

[KGdaBom]

I know Wolves fans have PTSD when it comes to Okoro because of Dunn, Culver and Okogie being just role players, but the upside of the player archetype is guys like Butler, George and Leonard.

Archetype and Role Player in the same post.

[Worm Guts]

With Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell entrenched as the faces of the franchise, a team could be tempted to draft with an eye on finding a skill set that complements those two at the top of the pecking order. The Wolves have a clear need for a defensive presence in the frontcourt next to Towns, and adding another strong defender on the wing wouldn’t hurt either. But Rosas said the Wolves will not be baited into drafting for need at No. 1.

“We’re super open-minded. Nobody’s off the board,” Rosas said. “We’re going to do incredible due diligence, whether it’s a point guard, whether it’s a big. I’m 100 percent in the camp of ‘find the best player with the best upside.’ That’s the path we’re going to take.”

https://theathletic.com/2034846/2020/09/04/wolves-no-1-pick-draft-options-lamelo-ball-anthony-edwards-trade-gersson-rosas/

The way it should be. That said if they take Ball I will throw a brick at my TV.

Prepare yourself.

[TheProdigy]

I know Wolves fans have PTSD when it comes to Okoro because of Dunn, Culver and Okogie being just role players, but the upside of the player archetype is guys like Butler, George and Leonard.

Archetype and Role Player in the same post.

Live look at KGdaBom:

[KGdaBom]

I know Wolves fans have PTSD when it comes to Okoro because of Dunn, Culver and Okogie being just role players, but the upside of the player archetype is guys like Butler, George and Leonard.

Archetype and Role Player in the same post.

Live look at KGdaBom:

yep. Hate those two terms.

[KGdaBom]

With Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell entrenched as the faces of the franchise, a team could be tempted to draft with an eye on finding a skill set that complements those two at the top of the pecking order. The Wolves have a clear need for a defensive presence in the frontcourt next to Towns, and adding another strong defender on the wing wouldn’t hurt either. But Rosas said the Wolves will not be baited into drafting for need at No. 1.

“We’re super open-minded. Nobody’s off the board,” Rosas said. “We’re going to do incredible due diligence, whether it’s a point guard, whether it’s a big. I’m 100 percent in the camp of ‘find the best player with the best upside.’ That’s the path we’re going to take.”

https://theathletic.com/2034846/2020/09/04/wolves-no-1-pick-draft-options-lamelo-ball-anthony-edwards-trade-gersson-rosas/

The way it should be. That said if they take Ball I will throw a brick at my TV.

Prepare yourself.

Please no. If we're going to draft a PG make it Hayes.

[Baseline81]

Prepare yourself.

I won't be upset if Ball is selected. To me, it's just an indicator he'll either be moved later that night or at another point.

[Worm Guts]

Prepare yourself.

I won't be upset if Ball is selected. To me, it's just an indicator he'll either be moved later that night or at another point.

The fact that Givony and Schmidt have suggested Ball should be the guy makes me think we should be open to the possibility.

[jpatrick]

Prepare yourself.

I won't be upset if Ball is selected. To me, it's just an indicator he'll either be moved later that night or at another point.

I struggle to see how Ball will fit with Russell. However, as an 18 year old, Ball played in a professional league against grown men. I believe he’s the second youngest player in the draft only behind Poku. In per game stats, he finished 2nd in the Australian league in assists and steals; 7th in rebounding; 17th in scoring; and 20th in 3-point makes. His shooting number also improved throughout the season, which would be expected since he hasn’t played real competitive basketball due to his dad dragging him around the glove.

He is the best PG passer I’ve seen come into the NBA in at least a few years. His passing is very similar to Rubio. He also has one of the best handles you’ll see coming in as a rookie. Plus he’s a 6’7” PG.

I think he has the highest ceiling in this draft. If I’m picking one guy out of this draft that could become an MVP candidate, it’s Ball. His floor is also low however and the fit here is highly questionable.

Because of those last two things, I’d prefer a trade; and if no trade, probably Edwards. But I could definitely see the logic behind picking Ball.

[KGdaBom]

Prepare yourself.

I won't be upset if Ball is selected. To me, it's just an indicator he'll either be moved later that night or at another point.

I struggle to see how Ball will fit with Russell. However, as an 18 year old, Ball played in a professional league against grown men. I believe he’s the second youngest player in the draft only behind Poku. In per game stats, he finished 2nd in the Australian league in assists and steals; 7th in rebounding; 17th in scoring; and 20th in 3-point makes. His shooting number also improved throughout the season, which would be expected since he hasn’t played real competitive basketball due to his dad dragging him around the glove.

He is the best PG passer I’ve seen come into the NBA in at least a few years. His passing is very similar to Rubio. He also has one of the best handles you’ll see coming in as a rookie. Plus he’s a 6’7” PG.

I think he has the highest ceiling in this draft. If I’m picking one guy out of this draft that could become an MVP candidate, it’s Ball. His floor is also low however and the fit here is highly questionable.

Because of those last two things, I’d prefer a trade; and if no trade, probably Edwards. But I could definitely see the logic behind picking Ball.

Yuck. I mean Double Yuck. His shot is BROKEN. It is beyond repair.

[theGreatRC]

I won't be upset if Ball is selected. To me, it's just an indicator he'll either be moved later that night or at another point.

I struggle to see how Ball will fit with Russell. However, as an 18 year old, Ball played in a professional league against grown men. I believe he’s the second youngest player in the draft only behind Poku. In per game stats, he finished 2nd in the Australian league in assists and steals; 7th in rebounding; 17th in scoring; and 20th in 3-point makes. His shooting number also improved throughout the season, which would be expected since he hasn’t played real competitive basketball due to his dad dragging him around the glove.

He is the best PG passer I’ve seen come into the NBA in at least a few years. His passing is very similar to Rubio. He also has one of the best handles you’ll see coming in as a rookie. Plus he’s a 6’7” PG.

I think he has the highest ceiling in this draft. If I’m picking one guy out of this draft that could become an MVP candidate, it’s Ball. His floor is also low however and the fit here is highly questionable.

Because of those last two things, I’d prefer a trade; and if no trade, probably Edwards. But I could definitely see the logic behind picking Ball.

Yuck. I mean Double Yuck. His shot is BROKEN. It is beyond repair.

Been finding myself agreeing with you a lot lately..

2020 definitely a weird year

[urinesane]

Why can't KAT play PF?

Centers are considered the least valuable they've ever been in the history of the game itself. Why not free up KAT to play the PF and not get as much physical wear on him through the season? If KAT is our best player, I'd rather take pressure off him in the paint, than freeing him up with a wing scorer (he's still gotta bang down low 82 games a year). KAT can get his offense in several ways, so it's not like adding a big man is going to totally handicap him on offense. Especially one you don't need to feed and can just feast off of scraps and the dump passes from Beasley/DLo drives to the rim.

If Wiseman can play decent defense, hit FTs, rebound, and be available for easy dunks he'll be a great value at the #1 spot this year imo. What he will ADD to the team won't take away from anything, and will only enhance their versatility in the modern game. Also, I like how he rebounds. He's got insane length, size, and great instincts for the ball (and he goes after it and doesn't let it just come to him).

Plus, I really liked what I saw from Beasley last season and I think he's in a good place in MN,he made the best out of the opportunity they gave him, and he could really thrive in MN (and lock in some money before potential pandemic revenue numbers effect things in a potentially big way). With Beasley, DLo, and KAT you have 3 very solid scoring threats as your main guys, and whatever you get from Wiseman on offense is just icing.

To the Ball people (aka 7 trolls or people with way too strong of weed):
Ball won't be able to score for sh*t at the NBA level, sorry but it's true. He will be a MUCH more frustrating and lower BBIQ version of Rubio, with probably as bad of shooting as early Wolves Rubio. I don't think he helps this roster much, DLo/KAT/Beas can create for themselves and they'll just sag off Ball and dare him to shoot while using the extra defender to make DLo and KAT work hard on offense. I think Ball would be one of the worst #1 picks ever made tbh... but we shall see (save this quote if you'd like).


Even if Edwards is amazing, I think his success is a zero sum game with the current Wolves build. In order for him to succeed, it will have to come at the expense of one of our other top scorers. I don't think he's the type of player that makes those around him better. I like how Beasley meshed with KAT and DLo and it would be a best possible case scenario if Edwards was the same... but why use the #1 pick with the hopes that he'll be as good as someone you already have on the roster? Sure Beasley will cost more per year, but I think he's ready to shine. Why reset the clock on someone that could be better, but I doubt will be by the end of his rookie contract (if ever)? For those thinking Edwards is going to be a DWade/McGrady level player... how? Where's their mentalities in Edwards?


Wiseman is not Sam Bowie and Edwards won't be an all-star, let alone a franchise changer.

Watch on YouTube

I think Wiseman helps make the Wolves a potential playoff contender by his 2nd season. I don't see Ball or Edwards doing that for the Wolves in their first contract (I actually don't think they make the playoffs with either of those guys on the team).

[KGdaBom]

Prepare yourself.

I won't be upset if Ball is selected. To me, it's just an indicator he'll either be moved later that night or at another point.

The fact that Givony and Schmidt have suggested Ball should be the guy makes me think we should be open to the possibility.

Supposedly intelligent people, for some reason that eludes me, think Ball is good. I'm just going to write it off to temporary insanity or mass hypnosis.