Pre-Draft Outlook
The last time Minnesota peeked its head into the playoffs, it went full Punxsutawney Phil and went back into its hole for three more years. The Wolves want to make this spring’s playoff experience a regular thing, which is the only acceptable approach after doubling their victory total from 23 to 46 under coach Chris Finch. Much of the progress should come from within, from resident stars Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards to role players such as Jaden McDaniels, Malik Beasley. The franchise also hired Denver’s Tim Connelly as its new president of basketball operations with a month to go before the draft.
A Stat That Matters
55/40 — Karl Anthony-Towns was the only player this season to shoot 55% or better on at least 400 2-point attempts and 40% or better on at least 100 3-point attempts.
The Way To Go
For years in Minneapolis, the goal was simply rounding up as many prospects as possible and hoping for the best. (That’s why giving up last year’s pick that became Jonathan Kuminga to unload Andrew Wiggins’ contract stung so much.) Now the Wolves need to focus on needs and upgrades. It says here that the backcourt needs attention — D’Angelo Russell performed poorly against the Grizzlies in the first round and Patrick Beverley shouldn’t be starting on a playoff team. Guards or wings who could help include Notre Dame’s Blake Wesley (The Ringer’s and Bleacher Report’s choice for Minny), Kentucky’s TyTy Washington or Tennessee’s Kennedy Chandler.
Under Contract
G: Malik Beasley
G: Patrick Beverley
G: Anthony Edwards
G: Jordan McLaughlin
G: D’Angelo Russell
F: Leandro Bolmaro
F: Jarred Vanderbilt
F: Jaden McDaniels
C/F: Karl-Anthony Towns
Free Agents
G: Jaylen Nowell (team option)
G: Josh Okogie (restricted)
G: McKinley Wright IV (restricted)
F: Jake Layman (unrestricted)
F: Taurean Prince (unrestricted)
F/C: Nathan Knight (restricted)
F/C: Greg Monroe (unrestricted)
C/F: Naz Reid (team option)
> 2022 Free Agent Tracker
Last year’s Draft
2021: No picks
— Steve Aschburner