NBA Draft 2016: Predicting Rookie of the Year

March 24, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Brandon Ingram (14) dunks to score a basket against Oregon Ducks during the second half of the semifinal game in the West regional of the NCAA Tournament at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 17, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn (3) celebrates on the court after defeating the USC Trojans 70-69 at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

86. . PG. Minnesota Timberwolves. Kris Dunn. 1. player

In the end, how can you bet against a Timberwolves player winning Rookie of the Year again? Especially when that rookie is Kris Dunn.

With 16.4 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.3 rebounds in his last season at college, Kris Dunn has a great all-around game offensively. He’s capable of putting up stellar offensive numbers, and his last game in college, a 29 point performance against the Tar Heels shouldn’t be forgotten, even if it was in a losing effort.

Dunn also has the tools – 2.5 steals per game, great foot speed, and a 6-9 wingspan – to be a lockdown defender. Oh, and did I mention he’s playing in Tom Thibodeau’s system which will allow him to grow his defensive game?

Unsurprisingly, after Dunn was drafted, the trade rumors surrounding Ricky Rubio potentially leaving began to flow. The Timberwolves weren’t able to land Jimmy Butler on draft day, but their pursuit of him during the offseason will be relentless. If they get him, they will be an absolute force, but even if they don’t, they still have a solid core in place.

With Andrew Wiggins, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Gorgui Deng in tow, the only thing the Timberwolves were really lacking was backcourt depth, and Kris Dunn helps immediately in that department. The Timberwolves are far from being finished, though, and could still make a lot of moves in the offseason. But even in a team stacked with young talent, Dunn still has the capability to stand out and make an impact, giving Minnesota its third straight Rookie of the Year.

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