Best and worst case scenario for Justin Patton

Rookie Justin Patton looks to put his injury aside and contribute to the Minnesota Timberwolves right away. Here are his best and worse case scenarios for the season.

Rookie Justin Patton comes to the Minnesota Timberwolves as a true center, a style that has become lost in today’s game.

As the forgotten man of the Jimmy Butler deal, Justin Patton is a member of the Timberwolves today thanks to one crazy night. When the blockbuster trade was announced between the Bulls and Wolves many thought the Bulls gave up too much by including Patton, the 16th overall pick. That thought is definitely understandable.

The 20-year-old center out of Creighton adds some more bulk down low. Known as a “true center” in college, Patton looks to carry that to the league with him. He stands at 7 foot tall and weighs in at 226 pounds. His build will allow him to, over time, battle with some of the best down low.

Prior to the draft, Patton’s wingspan measured 7-foot-3 and he had a standing reach of 9-feet-3.5′-inches, both show how lengthy he is. However, Patton started his summer by receiving foot surgery which forced him to miss the summer league.

Patton has been nursed back to action thus far. There is no rush for the rookie to get back as his long-term health is much more important. In fact, Tom Thibodeau was even quoted saying:

"We’ve just got to be patient with him. He’ll probably miss most of camp but everything else looks good."

The hope is for Patton to come back healthy. If so, look for the rookie to make a mark down low on offense, such as he did in college. If not, Patton will be welcomed into the league battling injuries which will undoubtedly affect his season.

A successful season for Patton would be to contribute towards wins in any way he can. Oh, and doing so while staying healthy. At worst, Patton will be battling injuries for most of the season and his development will be set back.