Dunking With Wolves
Fansided

An early look at the Timberwolves’ draft board

By Nolan Schmidt

Jan 26, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) reacts against the Georgia Bulldogs during the second half of a game at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. LSU defeated Georgia 89-85. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) reacts against the Georgia Bulldogs during the second half of a game at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. LSU defeated Georgia 89-85. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
6 of 8
Next
Dec 19, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears forward Ivan Rabb (1) controls a pass against the Coppin State Eagles during the first half at Haas Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 19, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears forward Ivan Rabb (1) controls a pass against the Coppin State Eagles during the first half at Haas Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Ivan Rabb– Forward, California

2015-16 Stats: 12.5 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.3 BPG

Player Strengths: Rabb has an unending motor; he will never take a play off which is an advantage that can go unnoticed at times. Because of Rabb’s work ethic he’s able to get offensive rebounds, second chance points, and easy fastbreak buckets. Along with that, Rabb is a good rim protector due to a lengthy, slender frame. He also works well off of the pick-and-roll, and is a good finisher around the rim.

Player Weaknesses: As is the case with many post players coming out of college, Rabb does need to add some muscle. Given what we now know about his work ethic, I don’t know if him getting stronger is going to be an issue. He could develop a more consistent mid-range jump shot, as well as expand his post moves. I’m sure the ultimate goal would be for Rabb to develop a three-point shot, making him a valuable stretch-four option, but that will take time.

Player Comparison: Rabb has a similar game to Nerlens Noel. Obviously, Noel was a better rim protector, but not by a huge margin as Rabb is quite good, too. They both rely on getting baskets around the rim, and their slender frames are comparable. Rabb has the potential to be a better offensive player than Noel, and even a better defensive player if he puts in the work.

Next: Workhorse

Home/Timberwolves News