2017 FanSided NBA Network Mock Draft: Let the experts decide

7

Jonathan Isaac

Forward, Florida State

This is the best case scenario for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Tom Thibodeau. There have been many rumors swirling about Jonathan Isaac being drafted before the Wolves get on the clock but it’s becauseIsaac and the Wolves fit hand in glove. He projects to be almost everything that they need; defense, outside shooting, versatility. All that and more.

Defensive is part of the puzzle that draws Minnesota to Isaac. Given his height, 6-foot-11, and wingspan, 7-foot-1, he will be able to guard multiple positions right away. He also uses his length well to disrupt ball-handlers and block shots. All of which the Timberwolves need more of. Maybe the most attractive attribute Isaac possess for Minnesota is that he doesn’t need the ball in his hands to make an impact. Minnesota already has enough ball-dominant players in Ricky Rubio, Zach LaVine, Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns.

Isaac is a different type of player and will help the Timberwolves diversify their portfolio. He is active off the ball and understands when to cut. Due to his height and athleticism, he can also catch lobs over small defenders off those cuts. He also has the potential to become a spot up shooter at some point in his career. He shot 34.8 percent from the 3-point line at Florida State and will be able to use that as a launching off point.

However, don’t expect Isaac to average double-digit scoring or shoot 36 percent from downtown during his rookie season. He will definitely take a few years to develop but could have the highest ceiling of any player in this draft class. He will definitely take a few years to develop but could have the highest ceiling of any player in this draft class. The young core of the Timberwolves just became much more impressive.

— Brian Sampson, Dunking With Wolves, @DunkingWolvesFS