As the NBA Draft inches closer, teams are continuing to evaluate what prospects they are targeting. The Minnesota Timberwolves are looking to add high-impact players with the No. 17 and 31 picks. South Carolina's Collin Murray-Boyles has a well-rounded game and could be an intriguing target. The sophomore forward averaged 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists on 58.6/26.5/70.7 shooting splits this past season. Let's explore Murray-Boyles' impressive all-around game and fit with the Wolves.
Collin Murray-Boyles is an elite defender
Murray-Boyles is arguably the best defender in the class. He uses his 7-foot-1 wingspan to disrupt the offense, averaging 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks. Furthermore, Murray-Boyles posted a stellar defensive box plus-minus of 5. Murray-Boyles can wreak havoc off-ball or lock down opponents on-ball. The 6-foot-7 forward's ideal blend of size, strength, length, athleticism, and IQ allows him to guard multiple positions. He is particularly skilled at guarding forwards and centers while being able to hold up on switches against perimeter players. Impressively, Murray-Boyles held opponents to just 38.3 percent shooting this past season.
Murray-Boyles' versatility is his main selling point as a defender and prospect. This versatility gives him shades of Draymond Green. Incredibly, South Carolina was 12.1 points better per 100 possessions on defense when CMB was on the court, according to CBB Analytics. The Timberwolves have built their identity around defense, and Murray-Boyles would be a perfect fit for this reason.
Murray-Boyles' shot creation and playmaking
Offensively, there's also a lot to like with Murray-Boyles' game, despite him not being a knockdown shooter. Murray-Boyles is a proficient shot creator and driver who can punish smaller matchups with his strength. He is a gifted inside finisher; his 58.7 field goal percentage led the SEC.
The shot-creation abilities he showed in college are undoubtedly a positive sign for his upside. Still, at the NBA level, he'll be used more as a roller and cutter. Murray-Boyles' knack for rebounding will also help him score and create extra possessions for his team. On both ends of the court, Murray-Boyles has the skill set to play power forward or small-ball center.
Playmaking could be Murray-Boyles' most intriguing skill. He often made the right read when the defense collapsed on him in college, averaging 2.4 assists this past season. Both when driving and in the high post, Murray-Boyles' playmaking abilities were showcased. His feel for the game and ability to simply make the extra pass will benefit him at the next level. Murray-Boyles also thrives in dribble-handoff actions. Furthermore, Murray-Boyles' screening helps open up the game for his teammates. The Wolves lack playmaking, so adding a capable passer and ball handler would be logical.
Many will point to Murray-Boyles' 2.4 turnovers as a negative. However, it's crucial to note that he played for the worst team in the SEC, and his potential assist numbers are far higher. On an NBA team with more talent, Murray-Boyles' turnovers would be limited. Overall, his passing IQ is an undeniable strength that should translate to the next level.
Murray-Boyles is a clear fit and a realistic target
With Julius Randle, Naz Reid, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker all being free agents, adding players who can play immediately would be wise. Murray-Boyles will be 20 on draft night, and his polished skill set gives him a good chance to contribute from day one. Reid and Alexander-Walker seem to have the most uncertain futures. Murray-Boyles is very different from both players. Regardless, his combination of interior scoring, playmaking, and defense could benefit the Wolves if Reid and/or Alexander-Walker walk in free agency. CMB fits into Minnesota's defensive culture while giving them a needed shot-creation and playmaking boost.
For a lot of the season, Murray-Boyles was seen as a lottery pick. However, he seems to be trending outside of the lottery or perhaps the late lottery at best. As a result, there's a good chance he's available at pick 17. While Murray-Boyles struggles to shoot, there aren't many other flaws in his game. Ultimately, Murray-Boyles should certainly be considered as a target for the Wolves.