The NBA Draft is almost upon us, and the Minnesota Timberwolves are considering a wide range of prospects. While the Wolves are mostly focused on players who can provide an immediate impact, they will also consider some high-upside players. North Carolina's Drake Powell fits into the upside category. During his lone season with the Tar Heels, Powell averaged 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists on 48.3/37.9/64.8 shooting splits. Powell is an explosive athlete and lockdown defender. Let's dive into Powell's game and fit with the Wolves.
Powell is a gifted defender
Powell is one of the best perimeter and wing defenders in this class. At 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot wingspan, Powell has the perfect build for an NBA defender. Moreover, he is an elite athlete who posted a 43-inch vertical, which was a combine high. Powell is an elite on-ball stopper capable of shutting down opponents. He also has an impressive impact as a help-side defender who can force turnovers. Powell's athleticism, length, quickness, and discipline are central to his impact as a defender.
Drake Powell has the potential to be the best wing stopper in this draft class.
— Mohamed (@mcfNBA) May 18, 2025
6’6, 7’0 wingspan. Opposing P&R ball-handlers shot 32% (!) when guarded by Powell. Exceptional screen navigation, physical tools + point-of-attack defense.
99th %-ile in max + standing vert testing. pic.twitter.com/wO0P7gAXfc
No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg was held to four points with Powell as his primary defender. In college, Powell had immense responsibilities playing a de facto power forward role as UNC often ran three-guard lineups. This speaks volumes to his versatility. At the NBA level, he will likely guard positions one through three while occasionally guarding fours if need be. He is also a hard-nosed rebounder and all-around high-effort player. With Nickeil-Alexander Walker's future in Minnesota unclear, the Wolves could target another wing. Powell would fit like a glove with the Wolves' defensive culture and alongside Jaden McDaniels.
Powell's offensive skill set
Offensively, Powell's main strength is his spot-up shooting abilities. Notably, Powell shot 37.9 percent from beyond the arc and 42 percent on corner 3s. This gives Powell a projectable role as a 3-and-D wing. Powell's skill set makes him an easy fit with any team. With his elite athleticism, Powell is also a quality finisher who shot 69 percent at the rim. He is capable of making an impact as a cutter or in transition.
Additionally, Powell is a good decision-maker who makes the right read. Powell didn't show that he was a capable self-creator or ball handler at UNC. However, he was a five-star recruit, and this aspect of his game could develop. In many ways, Powell's skill set is similar to Arizona's Carter Bryant, but his stock is a lot lower. Ultimately, Powell's elite defense and quality shooting give him a relatively high floor, while his athleticism and age give him plenty of upside.
Is Powell a realistic target for the Wolves?
Powell's draft range is unclear; some people think he'll be a surprise lottery pick, others suggest he'll fall to the second round. Still, he'll most likely be available at pick 17. While the Wolves could be looking for a more immediate impact player, Tim Connelly has also shown an affinity for high-upside prospects. Furthermore, Chris Finch doesn't typically play rookies big minutes.
So, perhaps taking a player who could benefit from a developmental year is logical. It would certainly be perceived as a risky pick. However, the long-term benefits are clear, and Powell's defense will allow him to make an impact at the NBA level. If Powell falls to the second round, he would be a massive steal for the Wolves at pick 31. Even if he falls to the late first round, the Wolves could consider trading up for him using their 31st pick.