Minnesota Timberwolves: 4 players for Wolves to consider drafting at No. 11

Rui Hachimura, F, Gonzaga

What do you know, another 6-foot-8 forward from Gonzaga.

Rui Hachimura had a breakout year as a junior for the Bulldogs, jumping his points per game scoring mark from from 11.6 as a sophomore to 19.7 this past season. He shot a fantastic 59.1 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from beyond the arc, although he only attempted one 3-pointer per contest.

Hachimua also pulled down 6.5 rebounds per game and would be a fantastic fit in an NBA frontcourt with a 7-foot-2 wingspan. The biggest issues of now are offensive development — the jump shot is a bit awkward and looks somewhat timid — and consistency on defense.

That said, the frame and overall production are NBA-caliber, and there is absolutely some projection left in the 21-year-old.

There were persistent rumors that the Timberwolves had made a promise to Hachimura at No. 11, although Rosas vehemently denied those reports in his pre-draft press conference earlier this week.

Hachimura fits what the Wolves need. He theoretically should be able to guard multiple positions, although the transition will surely be less seamless than the likes of Clarke, and the athleticism isn’t going to be quite at the level of any of the three aforementioned forwards.

It seems likely that Hachimura is still on the board at No. 11, and he could be another trade-back candidate if things shake out favorably for Minnesota.

We’ll be back with rapid reaction as soon as the Wolves make their selections and/or trades during the draft. Then, we’ll have some more in depth coverage on the individual picks and what impact acquisitions from draft night may or may not have on moves in free agency and on the trade market.