The Minnesota Timberwolves are trying to do their due diligence on prospects before the November 18th draft.
The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly going to meet with Dayton Forward/Big Obi Toppin, who was a consensus All-American and was named AP’s Player of the Year. The report comes from Darren Wolfson’s appearance on Brian Windhorst’s podcast:
"“I’m also told that Ryan Saunders and Gersson Rosas were in Las Vegas. At one point in recent days meeting with a prospect. I’m told that they will eventually meet with Obi Toppin”"
The Minnesota Timberwolves have previously been rumored to be “high” on Obi Toppin, although there is uncertainty as to whether they would consider selecting him with the first overall pick.
Toppin might be one of the Timberwolves top options should they end up moving down in the draft – as his offensive fit and production next to Karl-Anthony Towns would be one of the more interesting fits, although the defense would be somewhat lacking.
The other main player that the Timberwolves have met with so far is guard LaMelo Ball, who is currently the projected first overall player. It is not currently known whether Anthony Edwards has met (or plans to meet) with Minnesota, and Memphis big man James Wiseman is apparently not entertaining meeting with team management due to the potential fit issues with he and Towns.
Toppin averaged 20 points, eight rebounds, and two assists on splits of 63/39/70. At 22 years of age, he is one of the older prospects in this draft but is likely a more surefire bet due to what he brings to the floor from a shooting and scoring perspective.
If the Timberwolves want a stretch four that can help them score even more points (with an already great offense), Toppin may be the guy. If they want to diversify what they can do as a team, though, they should look in another direction.