How is Timberwolves rookie Justin Patton faring in the G-League?

Minnesota Timberwolves rookie Justin Patton spent the first few months of the season on the sideline due offseason foot surgery. Let’s check in on his progress with the Iowa Wolves of the G-League.

The hype is real for the young Timberwolves rookie out of Creighton University.

Justin Patton, the 6’11” center and 16th-overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, has been balling out in the G-League for the Iowa Wolves. If you’re not familiar with how he plays, then you’re going to want to start paying attention. The minute you watch him play is the minute you’re going to be begging to see him log some NBA minutes.

As a center, Patton has all tools to be great at every facet of the game. He’s mobile, athletic, and lives above the rim. He’s a two-way player that protects the rim and runs the floor well — not a surprise that Tom Thibodeau tabbed him as a development prospect at the center spot, with his length, athleticism, and defensive savvy.

A lot of his points come from post-ups and from around the rim, and occasionally a shot from beyond the painted area. He’s also is a great rebounder who will have the opportunity to be a double-double machine. Patton is a great passer, who can make some incredible plays for his size. He’s still very raw, but has the potential to be a great player in this league.

Patton has played a total of 18 games and has averaged 19.1 minutes per contest. Per game, he’s averaged 10.6 points (49.7 field goal percentage, including making four of eight total 3-point attempts), 5.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.9 steals and 1.3 blocks.

Patton had only attempted three 3-point shots through his first 17 games, but was 2-for-5 last time out. Down the line, the number of long-range attempts could and should increase as he develops, and he clearly has the skill to knock down the 3-ball.

In his last game against the Texas Legends, Patton, was nothing short of impressive.

This video perfectly illustrates how well he can pass the ball, score in a variety of ways, rebound, play good defense and of course his athleticism.

Patton is going to be a special player for this Wolves team. While it would be awesome to see him get minutes in the NBA, owner Glen Taylor has made it clear that he probably won’t be helping out the team until next season.

It’ll surely be exciting to see him play at the top level next year. Whatever his role may be, the long-term potential is nothing short of incredible. To leave you guys with a little more excitement towards the future, here’s some more highlights.

Here’s hoping that we get a glimpse of Patton before the regular season is out. But if not, we can surely look forward to seeing him in summer league come July.

Next: Checking in on the Timberwolves ICE defensive scheme...

We’ll have a preview of Monday’s Wolves-Hawks tilt this afternoon, plus coverage of the result following the game.