NCAA Tournament Round-Up: Wolves Top Draft Candidates

D’Angelo Russell (Ohio State)

NCAA Tournament Game Log:

vs. VCU: 44 minutes, 28 points (10-20 FG, 4-7 3FG, 4-7 FT), 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 blocks

vs. Arizona: 37 minutes, 9 points (3-19 FG, 1-7 3FG, 2-2 FT), 8 rebounds, 7 assists

Russell is possibly the best guard in this draft class, competing with Emmanuel Mudiay for that top spot. Russell emerged this season as the go-to guy for the Ohio State Buckeyes, and led them to an overtime win in the NCAA Tournament in which he scored 28 points. Russell’s second tournament game against Arizona didn’t go quite as planned as he couldn’t get things going offensively, although he was able to contribute in other ways.

Russell averaged 19.3 points per game this season, showing that he has a knack for putting the ball in the hoop when needed. He is a great three-point shooter (41% for the season) and is a good floor general as a point guard with good court vision. Russell’s high basketball IQ may make up for a lack of athleticism that he may have at the NBA level. As far as a fit for the Wolves, it doesn’t seem like Russell would fit too well in Minnesota. The Wolves already have a franchise point guard in Ricky Rubio and have plenty of youth and potential at the wing positions in Andrew Wiggins, Shabazz Muhammad, and Zach LaVine. However, this kid is very talented and adding him to the roster wouldn’t hurt.

Next: Willie Cauley-Stein