3 High-risk, high-reward prospects Minnesota should target in the second round

Considering Minnesota's second-round selection, we've identified three high-upside prospects the Timberwolves should target.

Minnesota Golden Gophers guard Cam Christie (24) rushes up the court against Indiana State Sycamores guard Julian Larry (1) on Sunday, March 24, 2024, during the second round of the NIT
Minnesota Golden Gophers guard Cam Christie (24) rushes up the court against Indiana State Sycamores guard Julian Larry (1) on Sunday, March 24, 2024, during the second round of the NIT | Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY
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1. Trentyn Flowers, Adelaide 36ers

Another NBL player, former Adelaide forward Trentyn Flowers played a much larger role for his squad than Johnson. Flowers averaged 5.2 points and 2.9 boards per game in nearly 13 minutes of action. He connected on 44.4 percent of his field goals and 36.8 percent of his triples.

When assessing Flowers, his breakout performance against Johnson's Hawks stood out. Flowers played in only 21 minutes in the 36ers first contest against Adelaide, but he dropped a season-high 23 points and made 8-of-10 field goal attempts (including 5-of-5 from downtown).

In that game, Flowers' talent was on full display. He knocked down catch-and-shoot triples, attacked the rim, and moved well off the ball. However, this one affair wasn't the most accurate depiction of Flowers. Sure, he's a good scorer, but his off-the-dribble shotmaking is questionable.

Flowers' spot-up shooting is above average, despite his somewhat awkward release. He cocks the ball back behind his head and leans slightly back instead of keeping his upper body straight. Nevertheless, Flowers knocked down contested looks. However, his off-the-dribble shotmaking left much to be desired.

The 19-year-old wing is a great driver, who's athletic and quick. He plays above the rim and finishes well through contact. Although he's still developing, Flowers possesses a strong, 200-pound frame. Fortunately for whoever selects Flowers, there's still bulk to add his frame.

Once Flowers fills out, his defensive ability will come around. The athletic wing is active on the defensive end, yet he lacked the statistical output to highlight any form of defensive playmaking. Flowers collected just five steals and two blocks over 18 appearances.

Where Flowers can improve is his playmaking and defense. It's more than likely Flowers will spend ample time in the G-League next year. Regardless of whether he averages 20-plus points, it'll be key for the young forward to clear multiple assists and compile a decent amount of blocks and steals.

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