2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 26: The Timberwolves’ young core improves
By Chris Stone
Isaiah Hartenstein
PF/C, Zalgiris
The Brooklyn Nets offloaded Bojan Bogdanovic at the trade deadline to acquire the Washington Wizards first round pick, giving them a pair of late first rounders to help renovate their roster. The pick here is 7-footer Isaiah Hartenstein, a center with an intriguing offensive skill set that could create some significant mismatches in time.
Hartenstein has the potential to be a play-making power forward or even a center, which is unique for a 7-footer. He can attack off the bounce in a way that few players his size can and he’s comfortable away from the basket. If he can improve his 3-point shot — a reasonable question mark given his percentages — his offensive game would open up even further as big men would be forced to come all the way out to the arc to defend him. Hartenstein is also a credible passer, but sometimes commits too many turnovers. If he can harness his play-making, he’ll be a unique offensive talent.
Defensively, there’s hope that he can fit into a scheme because of his fluid athleticism and mobility. He has okay length, but hasn’t shown himself to be much of a rim protector and there are some questions about his motor. Ultimately, a team will likely look for Hartenstein to make a big impact on offense while trying to survive his defensive struggles.