2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 26: The Timberwolves’ young core improves
By Chris Stone
Justin Patton
C, Creighton
Although they have significant money tied up in him, one thing has become consistently clear for the Oklahoma Center Thunder in recent seasons. Center Enes Kanter isn’t playable for long in the playoffs because of his defensive liabilities. While starting center Steven Adams is fantastic, finding him a credible backup will be key to the long-term success of the franchise. Creighton’s Justin Patton could ultimately fill that role.
Patton is a solid defensive prospect. He averaged 2.3 blocks per 40 minutes during his freshman season and should translate as a serviceable rim protector at the NBA level assuming his wingspan measurements pan out at the draft combine. More importantly, though, Patton is a fluid athlete who has the ability to slide laterally and competently defend pick-and-roll. Guarding in space has arguably become as important for modern NBA bigs, so Patton’s ability to do both should be highly valued.
Offensively, Patton has an above average post game and a developing jump shot, but he would succeed in Oklahoma City’s system largely because of his rim running ability. He’s excellent getting out and running the floor in transition and can also handle himself in pick-and-roll.