5. Minnesota Timberwolves – Onyeka Okongwu, F, USC
For a Minnesota Timberwolves team that is going to have a much different look next season, adding a big that could potentially grow and complement Karl-Anthony Towns will be essential. At No. 5, with James Wiseman already off the board, the Wolves could select Onyeka Okongwu out of USC.
Okongwu is an athletic big man that is still growing as a player. He’s still considered a raw prospect and is only scratching the surface on his potential. He has the potential to play next to KAT in the starting lineup as more of a defensive presence and doesn’t need the basketball in his hands to be an effective offensive end. It’s almost an ideal pairing.
Like Wiseman, there are still concerns about whether Okongwu has enough offensive game to play a starting role in today’s NBA. He hasn’t really showcased a consistent jump shot as of yet, much less range from the 3-point line.
Again, that could change in pre-draft workouts. But those are the concerns when it comes to Onyeka Okongwu. Plus, taking him at No. 5 could also be seen as a bit of a reach. I still believe team-fit should be at the forefront for a team like the Wolves.