Charlotte Hornets: 2021 NBA Mock Draft 1.0, first-round picks for all 30 teams
Round 1 – Pick 3: Minnesota Timberwolves
Scouting Report. 3. player. Pick Analysis. C. USC. Evan Mobley. 86
The Minnesota Timberwolves have some solid options in their backcourt, but they need to look at upgrading their frontcourt. With the chronic injuries on Karl-Anthony Towns, the Timberwolves could be looking at a new franchise center.
There have been various unconfirmed trade rumors surrounding Towns. If Minnesota wants to move on from him, then Evan Mobley could be a solid addition to their frontcourt.
The Timberwolves have been subpar on defense this season. They average the 24th most rebounds per game and are the 3rd ranked team in point paints allowed. Mobley brings a combination of offense and defense to the Timberwolves if he’s taken by them.
#Pac12Hoops Player AND Freshman of the Week, presented by @Nextiva: Evan Mobley.
— Pac-12 Conference (@pac12) February 8, 2021
Full release ➡️ https://t.co/TW2fo0h46X#FightOn | @USC_Hoops pic.twitter.com/cFCsr0QHOb
Mobley has proved that he can score at a high rate from the pate, but he’s not been very consistent from deep. If Mobley can develop his outside shot, then I think he can be a dangerous player to guard. Mobley has averaged 16.3 points per game, and he’s shot 58% from the floor.
Moreover, his defense has been one of his most impressive qualities. Mobley has a 7’5 wingspan, and he’s easily the best rim protector in this year’s draft class. In just 18 games, Mobley has averaged 2.9 blocks per game. He’s also averaged 9.0 rebounds per game for USC.
Mobley can be a gamechanger for Minnesota. He could play well in the starting lineup with D’Angelo Russell and Anthony Edwards. However, If he’s selected and Towns is still on the roster, then I think he will be a dangerous understudy that will destroy opposing bench centers.