Dunking With Wolves
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Minnesota Timberwolves final Big Board

By Brian Sampson

Jan 26, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) shoots the ball during the second half against the Washington State Cougars at McKale Center. The Wildcats won 79-62. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) shoots the ball during the second half against the Washington State Cougars at McKale Center. The Wildcats won 79-62. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 26, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) drives against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Stilman White (30) in the first half during the finals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) drives against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Stilman White (30) in the first half during the finals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Malik Monk

Malik Monk is sort of a wildcard for Timberwolves’ fans. He doesn’t necessarily play a position of need for Minnesota, however, his offensive skill may be too good to pass up.

Overall, Monk might be the best scorer in this draft. He is lightning-quick and can get to the basket almost at will.

He also has a good mid-range game and can shoot from the outside, as evidenced by his 39.7 percent 3-point shooting last season at Kentucky.

Unfortunately, Monk weighs in at a feather-light 197 pounds and stands only 6-foot-3. That would be okay if he were a point guard but Monk doesn’t possess the natural passing feel and vision that is required to play point in the NBA.

Also, Monk would play exclusively off the bench for the Wolves, as LaVine and Wiggins man the starting spots on the wing.

That wouldn’t be awful for Monk, as he may have a future as a Jamal Crawford type player in this league. He can come off the bench and spark his team with quick scoring bursts.

Not to mention, Monk has this swag about him that he brings to the court every night. He plays with such fearlessness that his teammates feed off him. This is much-needed on a Wolves team who, outside of their coach, lack a certain swagger or confidence.

Come the end of the night Thursday, Monk would be the least surprising surprise pick by Thibodeau and the Timberwolves.