#3 – Keita Bates-Diop, SF
Another 22 year-old that could add maturity to the Wolves bench comes in the form of Ohio State’s Keita Bates-Diop.
Bates-Diop played four seasons of college basketball, and finished last season being named Big Ten Player of the Year and a Consensus Second-Team All-American.
Last season, Bates-Diop averaged 19.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game, starting all 34 appearances. Technically, Bates-Diop is only considered a Junior after being granted a medical redshirt, but as I mentioned previously his age would add a level of maturity to the Wolves’ bench.
Looking at his stats, Bates-Diop could pass-off for a Power Forward or Center, however watching him play his athleticism and versatility become apparent.
Whereabouts Bates-Diop will fall in the draft is yet to be seen, however I’ve noticed a few Mock Drafts have him still available when the Timberwolves’ pick comes around.
His athletic ability would provide energy to the Wolves’ bench, and I can see Bates-Diop filling the hole left by Jamal Crawford in terms of scoring and shooting ability.
One issue I have with Bates-Diop is unfortunately his injury. While obviously not Bates-Diop’s fault, I am unsure about the Timberwolves’ taking on board another player with the potential of re-injuring themselves in the season, particularly with the lack of depth currently on the bench.
With Justin Patton spending his rookie season plagued with injury, along with Jimmy Butler being out for an extended stretch during the season, the Timberwolves don’t need another player spending a lot of time rehabbing.
That being said, Bates-Diop bounced back from his injury to record his best college season, so if his durability can be counted on, I’m happy with this pick.