Minnesota Timberwolves: Recent history of player development failings

2016 – Kris Dunn

Kris Dunn was another part of the deal that sent LaVine packing in return for Butler, and another player that’s seen a massive boost in productivity since leaving the Wolves.

For Dunn, however, that may be more of a growth from rookie to a more experienced NBA player, but as a four-year college baller one might have expected an easier transition to the league, which was not the case during his rookie season.

Dunn averaged just 3.8 points per game in Minnesota, and while his playing time has nearly doubled in Chicago, his points have quadrupled while his assists, rebounds and steals numbers have also improved.

Dunn was underwhelming as a rookie, and while it’s tough to evaluate a singular rookie season for a variety of reasons, perhaps it was the Wolves’ coaching staff that contributed to holding him back from his potential.

He was bound to improve after his rookie season, sure, but in as dramatic fashion as he did as a 23-year-old? Dunn is older than Wiggins and Towns, and despite having less NBA experience and not being a player with quite as many expectations surrounding him, his greater experience in college should have set him up for a smoother transition to the league than what he experienced.

As the No. 5 pick overall in 2016, the Timberwolves clearly had faith in Dunn’s abilities, and perhaps he’s proven them right to take a chance on him since he’s arrived in Chicago.