After an offseason of significant change, frontcourt depth emerged as a hole for the Minnesota Timberwolves roster. While the Timberwolves signed Trey Lyles to help alleviate this issue, they will mainly be looking for a sophomore jump from Joan Beringer.
Beringer showed flashes in limited minutes throughout his rookie campaign, but his preseason debut against the Milwaukee Bucks should give Timberwolves fans some excitement. Likewise, this game bodes well for his ability to perform in a scaled-up role.
Joan Beringer showcased his upside in the Timberwolves' first preseason game
In a matchup against two regular rotation centers, Myles Turner and Kel'el Ware, Beringer held his own while showing extreme growth from his rookie year.
In 15 minutes of play, Beringer scored 12 points, while snagging seven rebounds and a block. Beringer was extremely efficient, going 5-for-8 from the field.
Beringer showed instant energy stepping on the court, throwing down an emphatic putback dunk for his first points of the game. Beringer's motor was on full display, sprinting up and down the court, staying active on the offensive glass, and running in transition for easy points.
One significant aspect of growth that Beringer displayed in the matchup against the Bucks was his improved screening. While Gobert may not provide much scoring on offense, he undeniably is one of the best screeners in the NBA, generating open shots for Minnesota's guards.
As Beringer has continued to develop into his frame, his screening ability will be crucial for staying on the court.
In addition to the offensive side, Beringer showed impressive rim-protecting ability, much improved from his rookie year.
While Beringer only recorded one block, his rim deterrence was on full display, forcing the Bucks to shoot 3-for-13 from 2-point range when he was on the floor. Much like Gobert, Beringer was able to provide significant impact on defense, while not needing to fill the stat sheet with blocks.
Beringer still has to cut down on fouling
While Beringer had an immense impact in his 15 minutes of play against the Bucks, it became clear that his discipline regarding fouling will need to improve.
Beringer recorded four fouls, most of which were avoidable. This led to limited minutes for Beringer, which he will need to avoid in order to stay in the rotation.
Regardless at just 19 years old, Beringer has tantalizing potential to be the future of the Timberwolves' frontcourt. Beringer is developing at a rapid pace, even putting the ball on the floor and driving to the rim for a layup.
If his performance against the Bucks is an indication of what is to come, Beringer can develop into a premier starting center in the NBA.
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