2019 NBA Mock Draft: RJ Barrett moves back to No. 2
Kentucky. P.J. Washington. 10. player. 86. . F/C
Minnesota should probably consider a guard here, leaving Kevin Porter Jr. and Romeo Langford as potential considerations. When it comes to the long-term pieces in place on the Timberwolves’ roster, most of the talent is on the wing and in the frontcourt. The team just invested in Dario Saric and Robert Covington when they traded Jimmy Butler while Tyus Jones and Jeff Teague could both be free agents this summer.
It wouldn’t do well for Minnesota to focus on fit so much. With a rookie coach in Ryan Saunders and a roster in reset mode, the Timberwolves need to identify and develop young talent. Karl-Anthony Towns is the only untouchable piece. Washington fits with Towns, and that’s most important.
In Kentucky’s Sweet 16 loss to Auburn, Washington pulled out the whole range of offensive tricks. Throughout the game, Washington was able to create offense for the Wildcats from the post. He notched a handful of hockey assists as Kentucky made Auburn’s defense recoil by whipping the ball around the arc and puncturing the defense with drives.
Later on, when Auburn’s frontcourt locked down defensively, Washington changed his game. Instead of working toward his jump hook or passing out to the perimeter, Washington moved out to the perimeter and nailed several tough shots. It was the first game in over a month that he made more than two 3s.
If Washington can at least become above-average on catch-and-shoot 3s from the corner, he’ll be able to play with Towns. The All-NBA center’s ability to stretch the floor helps him mesh with more traditional power forwards, and Washington could slide to center with bench units and operate as a top option inside.