The Minnesota Timberwolves selected French big man Joan Beringer with the 17th overall pick. Beringer projects to be an athletic shot blocker and rim runner. However, Wolves general manager Matt Lloyd optimistically spoke about his ability to develop a mid-range game.
“We were pretty encouraged by his 15 foot and in game when we worked him out, and it’s not something they really challenged him to do at times… I have a good friend on the coaching staff who promised me he can shoot 15-17 feet, and saw it at the workout,” general manager Matt Lloyd said.
These comments should delight Wolves fans. Being an athletic rim runner makes Beringer an efficient source of offense. Regardless, Beringer's ability to develop a game outside of the paint could make him a truly special player.
Beringer's offensive upside
Beringer will likely never space the floor as a 3-point threat. He didn't attempt a single 3-pointer with Cedevita Olimpija. Nevertheless, if he can develop a mid-range jump it would open up his offensive game significantly. Beringer has great hands and shot a fairly respectable 60 percent from the charity stripe. In his limited mid-range jumper attempts Beringer looked comfortable. At just 18-years-old Beringer's upside is clear and it's possible this area of his game develops.
Operating from the mid-range wouldn't just benefit Beringer as a scorer it makes him a better playmaker. Most notably, Beringer could operate as a dribble handoff passer. Beringer is already highly impactful as a screener so developing a dribble handoff game could take his playmaking to the next level.
Undoubtedly, offense is the area of Beringer's game that is the rawest. Regardless, Beringer has clear offensive upside, and developing his mid-range game is a key part of this potential.
Beringer's two-way play
While Beringer's offense is fairly unpolished his defense is a clear selling point. At 6-foot-11 (without shoes) with a 7-foot-4 wingspan Beringer's physical tools are clear. Moreover, Beringer is an elite athlete. Beringer's shot-blocking and reaction time are central to his impact as a defender. Notably, he averaged 1.5 blocks this past season. Furthermore, with his speed and athleticism Beringer projects to have solid defensive versatility.
Overall, Beringer's defensive impact and upside are clear. If Beringer can develop offensively he has the potential to be a high-quality two-way center. While Beringer is a raw prospect and there were other more NBA-ready prospects available his upside on both ends of the floor is undeniable. It's certainly possible that Beringer potential his ceiling and this pick looks amazing for the Wolves.