Full Two-Round NBA Mock Draft Pre-March Madness
By Dallin Duffy
86. Scouting Report. PF, Memphis. Precious Achiuwa. 16. Pick Analysis. Minnesota Timberwolves (Via Nets). player
The T-Wolves landed this lottery-protected first from Atlanta in the Clint Capela, Robert Covington trade, and are surely hoping the Nets stay in the playoff picture minus Kyrie Irving.
With Isaac Okoro already headed north, the team doubles down and takes another forward, this time selecting Previous Achuiwa, the 6’9 power forward from Memphis.
Achiuwa boasts a 7’2.5 wingspan allowing him to defend like a center with the athleticism of a power forward. He’s among the best defenders in the nation, and would be great sliding in next to Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell in that regard.
He carries the nation’s second best defensive rating and third most defensive win shares, blocking nearly two shots a game. He’s also averaging 15.0 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. That resume speaks for itself.
There has been some concern surrounding his consistency and motor, and there’s always potential for a ugly shooting night.
The upsides should outweigh the down still, and the T-Wolves have to be happy with their two new frontcourt pieces.