Minnesota Timberwolves draft: Latest mock PF E.J. Liddell at 19

Power Forward

The Minnesota Timberwolves may elect not to re-sign veteran Power Forward Taurean Prince. If that is so, then they will need a replacement. In fact, even if the team does re-sign Prince, they will still likely be in the market for a front-court prospect. In spite of the abundance of backcourt talent, E.J. Liddell could be a solid option for the Timberwolves at 19.

What he does not offer is a strong defensive presence. That is not unusual for a rookie, as scoring is the trait most often coached and emphasized in NCAA basketball. But the 6-foot-7 243-pound forward does have the ability to get up and block shots, averaging better than 2.5 blocks per game.

He has improved dramatically in his shot selection and proficiency over the years. In fact, he has improved in practically all phases of his game in his three seasons at Ohio State and has done so in the face of a very competitive schedule. Perhaps that is one reason why his name has risen on many team’s draft boards?

In terms of a power forward, he is the fifth-best prospect in this draft and the last four with a first-round projection. Of the draft class, he has the cleanest vertical leap and is the best pure shot-blocker of the group. He is also among the best at distributing the ball, ensuring that he can play a key role in spacing, perimeter shooting, and rebounding.

While he will need to develop on the defensive half of the basketball court to earn significant minutes, he does offer the potential of providing an offensive spark off the bench even in his rookie season.