Minnesota Timberwolves: 5 goals for Justin Patton in his rookie season
4. Return through the G-League
Returning straight to the NBA will be a tough ask for Patton, who is void of a full training camp and preparation for gunning against the big boys.
Enter the Iowa Wolves.
The newest G-League team and the official affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves will be a huge help for the coaching staff this season, whether it be with Patton or using 2-way contracts to find hidden gems.
.@BrianSampsonNBA and @Chris_Reichert sat down to talk @iawolves & everything you need to know about the G-League. https://t.co/zX4bMrk2hE
— Dunking With Wolves (@DunkingWolvesFS) September 26, 2017
This will be the perfect place for Patton to slowly ease in to the strenuous life of an NBA player, and rehab his injured foot in the process. The G-League will provide a wonderful stage for Patton to showcase his amazing ability to run the floor for a big man, as well as work on his growing three-point shot.
According to Sports Reference, Patton shot over 53 percent on 3-pointers at Creighton.
Although it was only on 15 attempts, the Nebraska-born big man clearly has a touch that can extend out to three-point land.
With the coaching staff eager to use the G-League as a resource to develop young players, Patton may be the very first to work his way from Iowa to Minnesota.
Thibs on using Iowa Wolves "We're excited to have it, I think it'll be a very valuable tool." Talked about using new 2-way contracts too.
— Alan Horton (@WolvesRadio) June 28, 2017
He will more than likely get his first taste of NBA action through its lesser affiliate, but by no means does that mean he shouldn’t grab that opportunity and embrace it.