A Way Too Early Look at the Timberwolves’ 2016 Draft

Mar 21, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Utah Utes forward Jakob Poeltl (42) dunks the basketball against Georgetown Hoyas forward Paul White (13) during the second half in the third round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Godofredo Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Jakob Poeltl, Center, Utah

Poeltl (pronounced “Per-del”) averaged nine points, seven rebounds, and two blocks in 23 minutes per game for Utah as a freshman last year. He also showed he was able to hold his own against elite competition — when he went against Jahlil Okafor and Duke in the Sweet Sixteen, he held Okafor to just six points while registering ten points and eight boards himself.

Poeltl plays hard and is a force on defense. He shot 68% from the field last year, but that number is slightly misleading as to how effective he is on the offensive end. He thrived close to the basket and in transition, but his offensive game is very raw outside of that. He has very few post moves and isn’t able to consistently hit a mid-range jumper.

Poeltl could very well expand his arsenal on offense this year, but right now he seems very similar to Gorgui Dieng. If he is available when the Wolves pick next year, I think they would pass on him.

Next: Jaylen Brown - California