In his story about the Timberwolves getting the seventh pick in next month's NBA draft, Jerry Zgoda writes:
"If the Wolves don't trade the pick for a veteran or move down or up in the draft, they likely will choose from among Florida State forward Jonathan Isaac, Arizona forward Lauri Markkanen and possibly Kentucky guard Malik Monk with the seventh overall pick. At last week's NBA draft combine, Wolves coach/president of basketball operations Tom Thibodeau called shooting his team's biggest need and all three players — Monk and Markkanen, in particular — would address that need."
So who are these guys? Here are profiles of those three players from the foxsports.com list of top prospects available in the draft compiled by Evan Daniels, who is also the college basketball recruiting expert at scout.com.
Jonathan Isaac, forward, Florida State
Confidence is building and things are starting to click for Isaac, who possesses ridiculous upside because of his size, length, mobility and skill set that allows him to play inside and out. At this point, strength is missing, as is consistency at times, but once that comes, Isaac will take another big leap. Isaac's per 40 numbers of 20.2 points and 12.3 rebounds have been particularly impressive.
Lauri Markkanen, forward, Arizona
In my nearly 10 years of scouting prospects, I'm not sure I've seen a player Markkanen's size shoot the ball the way he does. At 7-feet, Markkanen has an effortless stroke with tremendous touch. He's shooting an impressive 47.3 percent from three. He's also proven to be a solid rebounder. Defense is the concern at this point, but he's a big, strong kid that brings a lot to the table on the offensive end.
Malik Monk, guard, Kentucky
Monk raised his draft profile when he showed up on Kentucky's campus with a more consistent stroke from long range. Monk, who is a tad undersized for a shooting guard, is an explosive athlete that can really score it, which he's proved time and time again this summer. His 47-point outburst may be the best single game performance of the season. He also has potential as a defender. Comparisons range from Monta Ellis to Lou Williams.
