Patrick Williams is an athletic forward that would immediately bring energy and size to the Minnesota Timberwolves lineup.
Now that we know the Minnesota Timberwolves season will not be one of the 22 teams invited to play in Orlando, the Wolves season is officially over. That means that it’s time for us all to shift their focus towards the 2020 NBA Draft.
Minnesota will potentially have two first-round picks, one of their own and the Brooklyn Nets pick, provided Brooklyn makes the playoffs. The Wolves’ best hope is for the Orlando Magic to jump the Nets, giving the Timberwolves the best non-lottery pick at No. 15.
One player that could be available around that spot is Patrick Williams. Williams is a forward who averaged 9.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and exactly one assist, stea,l and block per game in his lone year at Florida State.
At 6-foot-8-and 225 pounds, Williams will have size at the three or the ability to play small ball at the four. An advantage that will help him at the three/four position and potentially becoming a two-way player is his wingspan that reaches 6-foot-11-inches.
In one season at FSU, he displayed some defensive prowess. Adapting to the NBA might not be as difficult for him if he can bring that defense to the next level.
Scoring may be something that will come slower for him when he makes that transition. The Seminoles had a variety of players that contributed to scoring, which is a big reason why he averaged just 9.2 points per contest. Devin Vasssell, a likely top-10 pick, was the team’s leading scorer at 12.7 points.
Most of Williams’ points will come at the rim. His athleticism is a huge part of his game and playing above the rim will be a nice addition to any team. The energy he provides will be beneficial to the Timberwolves game plan. With D’Angelo Russell surveying the floor, Williams should have a lot of opportunities as a slasher.
He will need to improve his shooting percentages, as he shot 45.9 percent from the field on 7.1 attempts per game and 32 percent from 3-point range on 1.7 attempts. He has the ability to shoot the ball from distance, but it’s something that he will need to work on.
This highlight reel is a good example of the defensive potential he had on display in his one year at Florida State. He has a lot of potential if the Wolves were to pick him in the middle of the first round. His ability to become a two-way player largely hinges on his ability to score points other than shots at the rim.
Now, here’s hoping the Wolves get to keep the Nets pick…