NBA Mock Draft: Minnesota Timberwolves take Jonathan Kuminga at #5
The Minnesota Timberwolves moved out of the third overall pick simply because they have various long-term guards on their roster currently. Rather, they get someone that still is an incredible prospect with the fifth overall pick, and is arguably the best fit for the team of any of the top five.
In that mock-trade, Minnesota gets this pick, the 19th pick, a future first from the Los Angeles Clippers, and Kenrich Williams. This gives the Wolves several chances to hit on rotational pieces, adding to an already-promising core of Karl-Anthony Towns, D’Angelo Russell, and Anthony Edwards.
Jonathan Kuminga is one of the most fun players in this draft class – he has an incredible frame paired with great athleticism. The defensive potential from 2-4 is promising, and offensively there were often flashes as well.
The Timberwolves have lots of young talent on their roster already, so it honestly would not be surprising to see them trade this pick for an older, better veteran (or in combination with other assets to get a star).
However, with limited assets going forward (no pick in 2022, presumably) getting an asset in 2022 might be a priority. And Kuminga has enough upside (and will actually get real playing time) to where the trade makes sense for both MIN and OKC.
You can play Kuminga as either a small or power forward, and Chris Finch can mold him into the player that he wants offensively. There is a non-zero chance he starts as a rookie.