3 draft prospects who could fall to the Timberwolves at 53

3. Emoni Bates, Eastern Michigan

One of the more recognizable names projected to be taken in the second round, Emoni Bates has some of the most raw talent of any player in his draft class. Originally projected as a lottery pick when his college career began in 2021, Bates’ draft positioning has slipped a bit, but he remains an excellent sleeper pick.

Bates began his college career at the University of Memphis, but transferred after a few unfortunate injuries that limited his playing time. At Eastern Michigan, his natural scoring ability blossomed and he put up 19.2 points per game in 30 contests for the Eagles.

NBA scouts have been high on Bates from the beginning largely because of his height. Standing 6-foot-9, it is rare for a player with that much size to have the degree of shooting touch he possesses. Add in the fact that he has shown an ability to get his own shot from all three levels, and it becomes very intriguing to think about Bates’ ceiling.

One of the biggest knocks on Emoni Bates’ game is that he does not score efficiently, as he shot just 40% from the floor for his college career. If the Timberwolves believe they can work with him on his shot form and/or improve his shot selection, Bates could be a big time pickup toward the end of the second round.