The Minnesota Timberwolves find themselves reflecting on their recent draft decisions as the performances of other players, particularly Ryan Kalkbrenner, come into focus. The team opted for two untested big men, Joan Beringer and Rocco Zikarsky, in an attempt to prepare for the future. However, the current state of the team raises questions about the wisdom of that strategy.
Timberwolves’ Draft Decisions Under Scrutiny
In the 2023 NBA Draft, the Timberwolves allocated their picks towards young, raw prospects. Beringer was selected in the first round, while Zikarsky followed in the second. This decision aimed at securing options for when Rudy Gobert no longer dominates the roster. However, developing two inexperienced players simultaneously could hinder the team’s chances at a title.
- Joan Beringer: Limited to just 37 minutes of playtime, all during garbage time.
- Rocco Zikarsky: Currently demonstrating his skills in the G League.
The lack of impactful minutes from these players has been exacerbated by the Timberwolves’ defensive struggles without Gobert. The team recorded a troubling -19.7 defensive on/off swing, reinforcing the necessity for an additional center on the roster.
Kalkbrenner’s Success with Charlotte Hornets
Meanwhile, Ryan Kalkbrenner, selected 34th overall, has emerged as a standout player for the Charlotte Hornets. He is showing impressive stats in his rookie season, averaging:
- 9.4 points
- 6.9 rebounds
- 1.9 blocks
- 80.3% shooting from the field
This performance amplifies the Timberwolves’ regret regarding their draft choices. Many analysts had anticipated Kalkbrenner would be a safer and more immediate contributor for a team seeking to bolster its center depth.
Missed Opportunities and Draft Strategies
The Timberwolves previously traded back in the draft, initially moving away from the 29th pick to gain additional assets. However, this decision ultimately led to selecting Zikarsky instead of opting for Kalkbrenner, who many considered NBA-ready. The failure to address their center needs and prioritize a more established talent has led to questions about the team’s long-term strategy.
While Beringer may have potential, and Zikarsky offers developmental promise, the immediate need for a reliable player in the center position remains critical. The ability to manage the non-Gobert minutes has proven to be a consistent challenge for the Timberwolves this season.
In retrospect, selecting Kalkbrenner could have provided the immediate impact necessary for a team with championship aspirations. His ability as a defensive player, combined with offensive efficiency, positioned him as a perfect fit for the Timberwolves’ current needs.
