Minnesota Timberwolves: Killian Hayes fits Wolves better than LaMelo Ball

If given the choice, the Minnesota Timberwolves should pick Killian Hayes over LaMelo Ball.

Next week, we’ll know exactly what draft pick the Minnesota Timberwolves will have. But can at least speculate who will likely be on the board when they’re picking.

At this point, we know that it will be in the top seven selections. And we also know that Gersson Rosas and the front office will have a difficult choice

As it turns out, the Wolves don’t need a pure point guard or a center. Unfortunately for them, this draft is a bit more top-heavy at those two positions and deeper on the wing. For instance, Minnesota isn’t going to pick likely early lottery picks James Wiseman and Onyeka Okongwu.

But outside of that, all bets are off. Even most of the players likely to be taken in the top 10 whose primary position is point guard can likely play off the ball some. And that’s why we’re having the LaMelo Ball vs. Killian Hayes debate.

Some combination of Ball, Hayes, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Halliburton, and various 3-and-D wings will be on the board for the Wolves when their pick comes up. Assuming the Wolves don’t trade back, what will they do if both Ball and Hayes are available?

Put simply, both Ball and Hayes are playmakers. The Minnesota Timberwolves recently acquired one of the better playmakers in the league in D’Angelo Russell, but it’s also hard to see Rosas turning down the opportunity to add another top-flight passer and creator to the lineup.

Both Ball and Hayes possess NBA-ready skill sets in that area. And not only that, the argument can be made that they could each step into the league today and have above-average skills when it comes to passing, court vision, and overall playmaking.

Let’s break down each guard and their primary similarities and differences.