Minnesota Timberwolves Draft Australian Center
Minnesota came into Thursday night with the first overall pick in the second round. They opted to trade that pick with the Phoenix Suns, who selected St. Joseph's forward Rasheer Flemming. Then while on the clock at 35 overall, the Timberwolves traded the pick to the Lakers. Los Angeles grabbed Arkansas forward Adou Theiro.
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Now armed with a pair of future second round picks and some extra cash, Connelly decided to stick and pick at the 45th overall selection. The MN Timberwolves grabbed Australian center Rocco Zikarsky.
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Australian center Rocco Zikarsky to MN Timberwolves
After taking 7'0″ center Joan Beringer on Wednesday night, the Minnesota Timberwolves stayed overseas and grabbed Rocco Zikarski at 45th overall.
Like Beringer, Zikarski is just 18 years old. He has four inches on his new teammate at 7'4″ and his 9'7″ standing reach is truly insane. ESPN's Jonathan Givony broke down the pick for Minnesota.
'Zikarsky didn't have as productive a second season in the NBL as most scouts had hoped he would. Although he was a consistent factor on the offensive glass, he struggled to score efficiently, missing layups and struggling to make free throws, which hindered some of the optimism surrounding his floor-stretching potential. His ability to effect shots with his exceptional length is appealing, but he is still evolving as a rim protector when he isn't parked under the rim. Regardless, his size and youth make him an intriguing bet for a team that believes in its player development infrastructure, helping the game slow down for him while his frame continues to mature.'
Jonathan Givony – ESPN
Given the decision to move back ten spots just for money, it's clear the Minnesota Timberwolves aren't sure if they have a roster spot for their second round pick. Given his age, and raw overall ability, it doesn't seem like Zikarsky will see too much time in the NBA this season. The deal is also reportedly a two-way contract.
If Zikarsky can develop similarly to Beringer the Minnesota Timberwolves will have a ridiculous height advantage in the paint for years to come. Rudy Gobert is on contract for a few more years, but the pair of 18 year olds figure to be shot-swatters if things work out for them.
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The Timberwolves will now turn to free agency when looking for a point guard. Chris Finch still needs someone to facilitate the offense and take pressure off the aging Mike Conley.
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