SEC stars highlight latest batch of Timberwolves' draft workouts

According to HoopsHype, the Minnesota Timberwolves have worked out seven draft prospects this week. These seven players are Georgia's Asa Newell, Florida State's Jamir Watkins, Auburn's Johni Broome, Oregon's TJ Bamba, Wisconsin's Steven Crowl, Memphis' Dain Dainja, and Iowa State's Keshon Gilbert. As of Friday, June 13th, the Wolves have now worked out a total of 11 players.

The previous four prospects Minnesota had worked out are seen as Summer League fliers, including Minnesota's Dawson Garcia, Charleston's CJ Fulton, Kansas State's Coleman Hawkins, and St John's Deivon Smith. However, this batch of draft workouts gives the Wolves some real targets. Watkins and Broome are certainly second-round targets for Minnesota with the 31st overall pick. Regardless, Newell is the clear headline of this group and is a clear target at pick 17.

Newell is an exciting prospect for the Wolves

Newell is a versatile and athletic big man. He posted an impressive vertical of 36.5 inches at the draft combine. During Newell's lone season at Georgia, he posted averages of 15.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 steal. The 6-foot-10 big man has a projectable role as a rim-runner on offense and a rim protector on defense. Newell has impressive mobility, which will benefit him on both ends of the floor.

While Newell only shot 29.2 percent from beyond the arc, he has good fundamentals and could develop as a shooter. He also has a solid face-up game. Naz Reid is a free agent, and Rudy Gobert is showing signs of decline, so the Wolves may look to upgrade their frontcourt. As a result, Newell is a logical target at pick 17.

Broome and Watkins are second-round targets

In addition to having the 17th overall pick, the Wolves have the first pick of the second round. Johni Broome is a versatile front-court player and gifted interior scorer. Much like Newell, Broome was a star SEC player. The fifth-year senior was one of the best players in college basketball. Given his scoring prowess and feel for the game, Broome could be a quality pro. At 23 by the start of next season, he could contribute from day one. Broome is another intriguing player to boost Minnesota's frontcourt depth.

Jamir Watkins is a gifted wing scorer who averaged 18.4 points at Florida State this past season. The Wolves need more shot creation outside of Anthony Edwards, so Watkins could be an ideal target. Furthermore, Nickeil Alexander-Walker is a free agent, so finding a way to upgrade their wing depth would be wise. Similar to Broome, Watkins is 23 and could be an immediate contributor. Ultimately, the Wolves' latest workout list provides exciting targets for both of their picks.