By: Dan Slaubaugh

Two years ago, the Cavaliers pulled off a miracle coming back from a 3-1 series deficit against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals to bring the city of Cleveland their first championship in 52 years.

The Warriors were able to get revenge this year, winning their second title in three years against the Cavs in five games. With how incredibly talented the Warriors are, it's going to take a miracle to take them down in a seven game series likely until the year 2020. 

For the Wolves to eventually be able to compete with top-tier teams like Golden State and Cleveland (or the other 27 teams when Golden State starts to regress), they must find value in the NBA Draft. In Flip Saunders' tenure in Minnesota, he was able to find great values in Gorgui Dieng and Shabazz Muhammad (via trade for Trey Burke), Andrew Wiggins (via trade with, well, you know), Zach LaVine, and Karl-Anthony Towns.

Last year we saw Tom Thibodeau call the shots for the first time as President of Basketball Operations for Minnesota. He chose Kris Dunn with the fifth overall pick, a selection that raised many questions at the time and continues to do so almost a year later. 

There are a plethora of options the Wolves could go tonight. They could draft a prospect, trade down in the draft, or trade the pick entirely. This leaves fans completely guessing for what Tom Thibodeau has in store, setting up a very intriguing and exciting night in Brooklyn. 

The members of the On The Prowl staff got together to discuss what Thibs' strategy should be and also predicted the outcome of the draft's lottery selections. 

(Some answers may be more complex than others)

Where will you be watching the draft tonight?

Dan: At my apartment in Fargo, ND probably watching by myself simply because I feel awful inviting friends over only to be refreshing Twitter every three seconds for news/rumors (AKA Woj Bombs) the entire night.

Zach: I unfortunately will not be able to watch the draft. I will be umpiring baseball games, but will have everything recorded so I can come back and watch all the excitement through.

Jonah: I’ll be watching from home. 

Cal: I will be at home watching the draft with my roommate. You may know him, @sprinkeljonah.

What do you want the Wolves to do with the 7th overall pick?

Option A

Dan: Jonathan Isaac, baby. The combo-forward from Florida State is the perfect short and long-term fit for Minnesota. The versatile big blocked 2.3 shots per 40 minutes, showed he can switch out and guard the perimeter, shot 59.3 percent inside the arc, and rarely turned the ball over. Isaac will be a project and probably won't be the deciding factor in getting this team closer to the playoffs next year. Thing is, were not drafting him for his production next season. We're drafting him for what he could potentially bring to the table three years from now, a two-way player with great ability to defend PnR's (a fantastic skill in today's pace-and-space NBA) in this league. 

Zach: Trade the pick for a starting caliber player or a top bench player.

Jonah: In an ideal and perfect Timberwolves world (boy, do I wish this existed) the Wolves come away from the draft with Jonathan Isaac from Florida State. Not only would he bring defensive ability, athleticism and a promising shooting touch, he also adds great hair to an already solid cast of Wolves hairstyles.  

Cal: Trade Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and the seventh overall pick to the Bulls for Jimmy G Buckets.

Option B

Dan: JIMMY BUTLER WELCOME TO MINNESOTA. Nah, I doubt this happens. But it has been reported by The Vertical's Adrian Wojnarowski that the Wolves have assets and interest and trading for Jimmy Butler. A trade would probably involve a few (or all) of Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and the seventh overall pick. Before you close your browser after what I'm going to say next, hear me out. I would pull the trigger on this deal. Zach LaVine is my favorite player in the entire league, but when you have the chance to land a top 15 player with more than one year on his contract (without giving up Wiggins or Towns), you do it. 

Zach: Draft Jonathan Isaac out of Florida State.

Jonah: When it comes to the first option for this pick, trading for Jimmy Butler is probably the obvious answer to most Wolves fans. In an alternate universe, I might agree with you. In this alternate reality, it’s also possible to travel by tubes and the Wolves have won six straight titles so maybe we should just figure out how to move between dimensions instead? Sadly, our beloved Timberwolves exist in this reality where the otherworldly Golden State Warriors also exist. Let me present you with a scenario.
 
The year is 2019. The Warriors are on track for a threepeat and their fourth ring in five years. Both Kevin Durant and Steph Curry will be 31 years old while Klay Thompson and Draymond Green will be 29. The Timberwolves are a competitive playoff team led by Karl-Anthony Towns age 23, Andrew Wiggins age 24, and Jimmy Butler age 30. Do you believe that this Wolves squad is capable of matching that Golden State team?

Cal: Draft Jonathan Isaac out of Florida State.

Option C

Dan: Trade down. If I'm Tom Thibodeau and Jonathan Isaac is off the board at number seven, I'm looking to trade down and acquire Gonzaga big man Zach Collins. The former Bulldog profiles as a solid jump shooter in addition to a solid rim protector and rebounder. The Wolves don't need anyone to play 35 minutes and be the next great star in Minnesota, but a quality 28-30 minutes per game in a complementary role would be fantastic value in a loaded NBA Draft. If Tom Thibodeau believes Collins can provide that two/three years from now, he may take a chance and trade back.

Zach: Draft Lauri Markkanen out of Arizona.

Jonah: If Jonathan Isaac is not available, the wisest move would be to draft the best available player. Lauri Markkanen, Dennis Smith, Malik Monk, De’Aaron Fox, whoever it may be. A lack of “fit” does not negate a player’s value. Maybe one of those guys evolves into a high quality starter. Or, another team values said player so much that they make a deal to acquire him. Crazy things happen in the NBA, we’ve all seen it. And as we saw this year in the NBA Finals, the team with the most talent usually has a good shot at bringing home the Larry O’Brien.

Cal: Draft Lauri Markkanen out of Arizona.

Prediction of the Wolves' pick

Dan: Jonathan Isaac, Florida State.

Zach: Wolves trade down by drafting a player at number seven that a team lower wants. Trade results in Zach Collins + another asset to the Wolves. 

Jonah: Jonathan Isaac, Florida State.

Cal: I think the Wolves will end up drafting Isaac if he is still available. If Isaac isn't on the board when we are on the clock, I think we will draft the best player available.

Bold Prediction of the Night

Dan: I tweeted this yesterday, and call me crazy, but the Wolves trade Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and whoever they draft seventh overall to Chicago for Jimmy Butler. This is merely a bold prediction and I've had like 15 bowls of Lucky Charms since Monday morning, so I don't blame you if you can't take me seriously. 

Zach: Jimmy Butler gets traded to the Boston Celtics. (Is this considered bold?)

Jonah: Phil Jackson has seen the future and moves Kristaps Porzingis in exchange for the Lakers #2 pick. Lonzo Ball is forced to run the triangle while LaVar screams madly from the sidelines of Madison Square Garden ala Spike Lee. 

Cal: Same as my homie Dan.

​Lottery Projections

(From left: Dan Slaubaugh, Zach More, Jonah Sprinkel, Cal Colbert)

By: Cal Colbert

It's crazy to think that the 2017 NBA Draft is still 30-plus hours away considering the ridiculous amount of trade rumors swirling the web and more completed trades than I would have ever expected at this time. This truly is both a fun and frustrating time of the off-season for NBA fans everywhere. We see some of our favorite players leave in trades or free agency, but we also see new stars, young talent, and veterans added to the roster of our favorite teams. 

Concerning the Wolves, there have recently been talks about two big-name players coming to Minnesota.  
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The first being forward Andre Iguodala. The sixth man of the year candidate is a free agent this off-season and is coming off a season where he just won his second ring with the Golden State Warriors. Recently in an article written by Shams Charania of the Vertical it was reported that many teams are looking to try and land Iguodala on their roster this offseason. Minnesota is one of the teams linked to wanting Iguodala.

Iguodala, in my opinion, would be a great addition to this Wolves roster. Depending on what Tom Thibodeau wants to do with him, Iguodala would be a multi-tool off the bench. Not only is he a great defender with a very high basketball IQ, his veteran presence and great leadership would be extremely beneficial for this young and inexperienced Wolves team.

Iguodala could potentially sign a contract up to $20 million a year this offseason. As much as I would love to have Iguodala on this team, I don't think I would be willing to pay him 20 million a year. The most that I would be willing to pay for Iguodala is 15-17 million a year. Iguodala is 33 years old already and I wouldn’t want to lock him into too big of a contract. Especially because we have seen him struggle with some lingering injuries the last two seasons. 

The other potential player we could bring in through trade is Jimmy Butler. Adrian Wojnarowski tweeted on Monday that Minnesota has assets and interest in trading for Jimmy Butler. I'm assuming a trade would probably look something like Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn, and the Wolves' seventh overall pick from this upcoming draft for Butler. The Wolves would certainly miss LaVine, but I would love this trade knowing Butler would make an immediate impact on the Wolves in every way.

The seventh year wing out of Marquette is one of the best two-way guards in the NBA. He brings a veteran presence, he has playoff experience, and was a apart of four winning seasons with Thibs in Chicago. This trade just makes sense for the Wolves. They have so much young talent already and are in need some sort of veteran leadership on this roster. Butler consistently brings a much-needed defensive presence to a team that desperately lacks any semblance of defensive discipline.

Of the two options, I would be all in for the Jimmy Butler trade. The Wolves are a team full of young potential and hopefully future stars, but also in dire need of a veteran leader and someone who brings a little of everything to the team. I think we can all agree that Butler brings more than just a little of everything if he was to join the Wolves, even more than a great glue-guy like Andre Iguodala.

If Tom Thibodeau can manage to bring Jimmy Butler to Minnesota - without giving up Andrew Wiggins (and obviously Karl-Anthony Towns) - both sides will be in a great position to be successful. 

By: Dan Slaubaugh

It may not seem like it because of the incredibly modest amount of information leaked from the Wolves front office, but the NBA Draft is now officially one week away. 

All is quiet in the Wolves camp for now. With Tom Thibodeau and Scott Layden electing to keep everything in house, fans are left guessing with what the Wolves front office will do with the seventh overall pick. This is noticeably different from the Flip Saunders era, where inside information continually leaked to the media. Flip loved to leak information to keep front offices around the league guessing. He was great with the media and genuinely enjoyed chatting in front of cameras. He knew he had a job to do and they did as well.

Tom Thibodeau and Scott Layden are vastly different. They don't care to have a good relationship with the media. They are incredibly tight-lipped, making life tough for the Darren Wolfson's (KSTP, 1500 ESPN) and other journalists who are having difficulty obtaining even small nuggets and information about the Wolves' draft preferences. Fans want to hear what is going on behind those closed doors. 

Last year at this time, it seemed logical to suggest Tom Thibodeau would select Jamal Murray out of Kentucky or Buddy Hield out of Oklahoma. There wasn't one consensus player that all Wolves fans seemed to love like this year's Jonathan Isaac, but fans agreed that the team was in need of shooting off the bench. 

Then, on draft night, Adam Silver walked to the podium and announced Kris Dunn (PG, Providence) as the Wolves' 5th overall selection. The majority of Wolves fans were confused and bewildered on the pick (turns out they were right to question the pick) as Ricky Rubio appeared to be stepping into his prime, coming off a successful 5th season in Minnesota. The pick generated more questions than answers for a franchise that hadn't made the playoffs in 12 years. 

Looking back, I don't think it was silly for us to be surprised by Thibodeau's selection considering it was his first pick as Wolves President of Basketball Operations. We could hardly look at his Chicago days and draw any conclusions, especially considering he wasn't even the one calling the shots. It would be a shame if he did indeed use the same criteria GarPax employed in Chicago, taking into consideration at how dreadful they were at drafting in Thibodeau's time in the Windy City. Since 2010, the only player that has turned out to have a successful career after being drafted by the Bulls is Jimmy Butler. 

That being said - and because of such little draft history from Thibodeau calling the shots - we need to have a different approach from last year heading into draft night next Thursday. We shouldn't "expect" Thibodeau to select a player who's favorably looked upon in the Wolves community. If we take that approach, we could easily be heavily disappointed after talking ourselves into a prospect only to wind up with someone else on draft day. 

With high-upside prospects such as Jonathan Isaac, Malik Monk, Lauri Markkanen, and Dennis Smith Jr. potentially available at 7, there are a plethora of options the Wolves could go on draft night. Combine that with the chance they trade down or trade the pick entirely, fans are left almost completely guessing what Tom Thibodeau has in mind for draft night. 

​There are not a lot of known's for what the Wolves do next Thursday, but one thing appears as we inch closer to the NBA Draft: Tom Thibodeau doesn't seem to have any intention of hinting at who the Wolves next draft pick might be.

By: OTP Staff

With July's NBA Draft quickly approaching, free agency looming, and the final revealings of the Wolves' rebrand on its way, we thought this would be a great time to open up the question gates to the people. 

You guys asked, now it's our turn to answer. 

Enjoy!

​Q: How crucial is this offseason to the future if the Wolves want to be a Finals caliber team in the next five years? - @realmnsportsfan

Dan: I think we can all agree no matter what they choose to do the team needs to post a winning record and make the playoffs next year. That being said, this is the last offseason the Wolves will have money to spend with the Wiggins, LaVine, and Towns extensions looming. A heavy portion of the Wolves payroll will be absorbed by the core players, probably Gorgui Dieng, and whoever we sign in free agency this offseason. Because of that, it is of vital importance that Thibodeau nails these free agent signings. If he can, this team - led by a legitimate franchise player in Karl-Anthony Towns - will be well-positioned to make plenty of deep playoff runs over the course of the next decade.

Q: Do you think Derrick Rose will be a perfect fit for the Wolves? If so, what will happen to Ricky? - @jjbgenson

Jonah: I hate to be the bearer of bad news in this situation. But Derrick Rose is in no way a perfect fit for the Wolves. After seemingly endless knee surgeries, it would be extremely hard for me to place any trust in Rose playing 70+ games as a full-time starter for a team with playoff inspirations. Let's not forget that during a Knicks game in which Rose was supposed to start, Rose WENT MISSING AND FLEW TO CHICAGO WITHOUT TELLING ANYONE. Those are two Shaq-sized red flags.

For those of you screaming at your computer about Rubio's inability to stay healthy, let me remind you that Rubio has played in 151 of a possible 164 games over the last two years. Rose has played in 130. With how close the Western Conference playoff race will be next year, I personally want as many games as possible out of my starting point guard.

Q: I believe wiggy has improved his ppg by three each year. You think he can improve it another three next year? - @APK3vikes

Zach: Andrew Wiggins has had a steady increase in the points per game category since entering the league. His rookie  year, he averaged 16.9ppg, 2nd year, 20.7ppg, and last year 23.6ppg. If Wiggins increases his points per game by three points next year, he would be at 26.6 which would have ranked 9th best in the NBA this past season. I do believe Wiggins will improve his ppg again, but I don't think it will be by a full three points. I see Wiggins as a 25ppg scorer. The bigger things for the Wolves and Wiggins will be increasing his efficiency. If he can shoot at a higher perentage from three-point range and the free throw line, I will be extremely happy with those numbers.

Q: Will KAT finally be in the All-Star game next season, or better yet, an All-NBA team? - @jjbgenson

​Cal: To answer this question with one word I would say, “yes”.  If you compare KAT’s stats to his peers at the Center and Power Forward positions that made the All-Star Game or made an All-NBA team, you could easily see that he deserves to be in the discussion. The chart below compares the 2016-2017 season stats.

Without a doubt you can see that KAT has the stats to be in the All-Star Game AND make an All-NBA team. Let's not disregard the fact that KAT, at the spry young age of 21, was the FIRST AND ONLY player to ever score 2,000 points, grab 1,000 rebounds, and make 100 threes in a single season. That is mind blowing. To be honest, I don't know how he didn't make either team this year.
 
However, in regards to the All-Star Game, we do have to account for the fact that it is a popularity contest. Steph Curry started over Russell Westbrook in the All-Star Game this year, and Russ averaged a triple-double. So, in other words, make sure you go out and vote next year for our fellow young pups to participate in All-Star weekend. 

Q: Who is the biggest star that we could potentially sign? - @rossknowsbest

Dan: If my calculations are correct, there are about seven potential stars that could hit the free agent market. To name them: Kevin Durant (PO), Stephen Curry (UFA), Gordon Hayward (PO), Blake Griffin (PO), Chris Paul (PO), Kyle Lowry (UFA), and Paul Millsap (PO, but has told Atlanta that he won't exercise his option for 2017-18). There are also a few players I would consider fringe-NBA stars such as Jrue Holiday, Serge Ibaka, and Dwayne Wade, but there certainly not in the same tier as the top seven.

Out of the players named above, Paul Millsap suggests as the most realistic (yet still very unrealistic) star we could potentially sign. He'd be a perfect fit beside Towns, he's a plus defensive player, and he can score from just about anywhere on the court. It's a dream, unlikely scenario. 

Q: Who's the last great mean bully on the #Twolves - I say Gary Trent. IMO we need one on this team to Draymond role - maybe OG Anuoby? - @MaruggiAlbert

Jonah: The mention of Gary Trent is wonderful. Some of these Timberwolves hidden gems go forgotten due to lack of team success. How many new era fans remember Chauncey Billups in a Timberwolves uniform? Does LaPhonso Ellis ring a bell? And of course, Malik Sealy. All that aside, I believe you've forgotten the ultimate Timberwolves bully; Kevin Garnett.

Q: When will the new uniforms be revealed? - @NP_3201

Dan: The Wolves haven't released a date yet. One thing that is for sure, they're going to milk this rebrand as much as possible over the summer. As a result, the new uniforms, court design, and arena remodel will probably be released at different times.

​Q: Are their new uniforms going to be nice? - @NBAGeneralist

Jonah: I wish I could give you a straightforward answer on this one. If I'm being frank, I have some trepidation about the jerseys. First off, I'm not head over heels in love with the new logo. However, I am a big fan of the new color scheme. I hope that the primary and secondary colors of the new jerseys will feature the navy blue and grey. The neon green should only be used as an accent, similar to the wolf eye and basketball on the new logo. If the team decides to use neon green as a featured color on the jerseys, this could get ugly fast.

This seems contradictory but I am all in on 100% neon green Christmas Day jerseys. By blinding your opponent, you create an easy path to the basket. Now that I think about it, the Wolves should only wear neon green just for a competitive advantage. Shoes, socks, athletic tights, jerseys, and maybe we can convince Andrew Wiggins to dye his cornrows to match.

Q: Aside from winning, what's the most important thing the Wolves organization can do to get butts in seats at home games? - @WestBankTank

​Zach: As you touched in your question, winning is easily the best way to get people to start attending games. This past season, the Wolves were 29th in the NBA with an average attendance for home games of 14,809. This needs to improve, and the Wolves are finally pushing the right buttons to help. The Target Center renovation is a huge step in the right direction. The updated look, seats, concourses, etc. will help get more out of your average fans at the game just to help rejuvenate the fan base. The new jerseys, court design, and all-around new look will help get people excited about Wolves basketball again. Other than that, it really comes down to putting good basketball on the court. Whether this is signing a big name free agent or just player development, team success will drive attendance numbers.

Q: If the Wolves decide to trade the 7th pick, who would we target with that pick? - @schnydetheglide

Cal: My fellow writers and I all agree that the Wolves need shooting and a starting power forward because Gorgui seems better suited to a bench role. 

I have two trade scenarios and I personally would be happy with either.

#1 - 7th overall pick and Tyus Jones for Derrick Favors. The only problem with this trade would be that Favors is an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2017-18 season. I also have a soft spot for the Minnesota native (Tyus Stones). 

#2 - 7th overall pick to Denver for Garry Harris. He would quickly boost the Wolves three-point shooting and greatly improve the much-needed bench scoring.

By: Dan Slaubaugh

The Minnesota Timberwolves now know their drafting position in the upcoming NBA Draft.

The lottery balls did not fall in the Wolves favor tonight, as the team slipped into into the draft's number seven selection. This is the ninth time the Wolves have dropped in the lottery in 19 years (ouch) and the third time the team will pick seventh in the draft, with the last pick being Corey Brewer in 2007.

Minnesota had a 43.9 percent chance at landing the sixth pick and 30.5 percent chance at landing the seventh pick before the lottery balls were drawn. With Andrew Wiggins in attendance and Wolves front office members Tom Thibodeau and Scott Layden surely watching, the Wolves now have an idea what kind of players they could realistically land (or trade for!) with their lottery pick.

The Wolves still have over a month to prepare for the draft, which is scheduled for June 22 at 7:00 PM ET on ESPN. This gives them time to delve deeper into the picks and get to know which players could fit their team. 

With the odds decided and the pick locked, it's now time for the Wolves to prepare themselves to make the best decision for the franchise's future. 

That being said, there are two avenues (h/t: Zach More) Tom Thibodeau and the Wolves could take with their pick.

Option 1) It's time to win games and make the playoffs now. If this is the case, Thibs tries to trade the pick + player for an all-star and go big in free agency. Theory being they don't need any more 19 year olds on an already fairly young roster.

Option 2) Draft a player who they think will be the best fit in two or three years and hope their players develop. Spend smart in free agency and hope to sneak into the playoffs. Theory behind this is no one is competing with the Warriors or Cavs in the near future, so let's make this team a championship contender four years from now instead of going all in when the team's core players are all under 23 years old.

Personally, I understand both theories and I am sure the front office will have people on both sides of this debate.

I think we can all agree no matter what they choose to do the team needs to post a winning record and make the playoffs next year. Establishing a winning culture and feeling what it's like to win is of vital importance to this team's future - and it needs to start next season. That starts with Tom Thibodeau as President of Basketball Operations this offseason. It's up to him to complement these young studs (who still need work defensively) with steady rotational players. That doesn't necessarily mean going all in on next season, but rather setting this team up for greater success in a year that's officially going to be labeled "playoffs or bust".

By: Jonah Sprinkel

The NBA playoffs are well underway and like every year the Wolves are on the outside looking in. The frustration of being left out continues to rise. Karl-Anthony Towns and his head coach, Tom Thibodeau, have blatantly ignored the sign that reads, “Do not tap on glass” and are pounding on the metaphorical glass, screaming to be let in. Sadly, you can’t enter the playoffs in the middle of the second round. So, in true Timberwolves fashion, it’s time to look at the offseason. The Timberwolves are on the books for nearly $79.1 million worth of contracts for this upcoming season. That includes Nikola Pekovic’s (RIP) $11.6 million. Assuming Pek’s contract comes off the books due to a medical exception the Timberwolves should have a shiny $33.5 million to play with before they reach the reported $101 million salary cap. Should the Timberwolves spend the money on a new washer machine? Maybe a refrigerator with a built-in ICE machine? Let's take a look.

Off-season needs

Before we dive headfirst into free agency I should note one thing. The Wolves needs may change based on what Thibs does in the draft. He could draft a player to fulfill a need or possibly trade the pick for a vet. With that out of the way, let's move on!

After last year one thing should be obvious; the Wolves need defensive players. Not guys who have the potential of playing defense. Defensive players. Guys who take pride in making a stop and do so on a consistent basis. These kinds of player will thrive under Thibs once they arrive here. The Wolves just need them to come here. 

Outside of the giant off-season category labeled "Defense" lies two smaller categories; three point shooting and a high quality big man. The three point shooting is self-explanatory. The Wolves did not shoot enough threes to compete with certain teams. Anytime you trade threes for two's it's a recipe for disaster. 

Another high quality big man might come as a surprise to some. But, let me first ask you a question? Assuming the Wolves make the playoffs, do you honestly feel that Gorgui Dieng can be your starting power forward in a deep playoff run? I tend to lean towards no. There is another issue though. At times, Dieng and Towns tend to overlap each other in the paint. If the Wolves were to replace Dieng with a stretch four they just might find themselves a more fluid flowing offense. Not only would this four ideally stretch the floor, they would also be able to competently switch onto more agile wings. 

My top five Timberwolves free agent targets
 
#1 J.J. Redick
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2016-17 per game: 15.0 PTS, 2.2 REB, 1.4 AST, 55.8 eFG%

The former Duke superstar is coming off four years with the Los Angeles Clippers. In those four years, Redick attempted over 1,500 threes. He converted 44 percent of those attempts. Last year alone Redick shot 44.9 percent - 11th highest percentage in the league - on catch-and-shoot threes.

Imagine with me a world where Andrew Wiggins has both the passing vision and ball handling skills to run a consistent pick and roll with Karl-Anthony Towns. That sounds like a lot of fun, right? Now I want you to picture Redick sitting out on the wing. Holy smokes! Not only does this spread the floor without dominating the ball (ie. Zach LaVine). This also allows LaVine to operate as the Wolves 6th man. Talk about buckets.

It’s a fun idea, but everyone and their mother knows that the Timberwolves true issues are on the other end of the floor. Redick is a good team and help defender. He’s very aware of his team’s defensive scheme and works hard to play his role despite his limited lateral quickness. This is demonstrated by the opposing team’s offensive ratings rising by 0.4 points per 100 possessions when Redick stepped off the hardwood.

Ideal contract: Three years, $50 million.

#2 Taj Gibson

2016-17 per game: 10.8 PTS, 6.2 REB, 0.9 AST, 51.5 eFG%

Ever since Thibs took the POBO job with the Wolves there has been constant speculation that he would bring in former players. Wolves fans saw that with John Lucas III. However, that was never going to be a big impact move. Taj Gibson could be that big impact move.

The Timberwolves need a guy who is willing to get into a fight, mix it up and raise the intensity. I think back to when Gibson was with the Chicago Bulls. He picked a fight in the playoffs with then Cleveland Cavalier, Matthew Dellavedova. Now, I’m not advocating physically harming another person and I’m certainly not saying Dellavedova is an intimidating opponent. But, the stakes are much higher in the playoffs. If there’s a fight or a moment where the integrity of the Wolves is questioned, I want Taj Gibson on my team.

Outside of this however, Gibson is a starting quality power forward. The On/Off numbers reflect a player that positively influences both sides of the ball. He does the dirty work. Clogging the lane, setting picks, rebounding in traffic. The whole shebang. The only downside is that he will not spread the floor well. Outside of 10 feet his field goal percentage drops below 40 percent and his three-point shot is nonexistent.

Ideal contract: Two years, $34 million.

#3 JaMychal Green

2016-17 per game: 8.9 PTS, 7.1 REB, 1.1 AST, 55.5 eFG%
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JaMychal Green might just be the stretch four that the Timberwolves are searching for. During the 2015-16 NBA season Green appeared in 78 games and connected on 15 of his 45 three point attempts. This last season Green started 77 games over Zach Randolph while converting 55 of his 145 three point attempts.

One of the most encouraging things about Green is his efficiency growth in just the last season. During the 2015-16 season Green attempted 6.3 field goals per game with a 52.0 true shooting percentage. This last season, 2016-17, Green attempted 6.5 field goals game and posted a 60.1 true shooting percentage. 

JaMychal’s greatest asset might be his body and athleticism. Standing at 6’9 he has a ridiculous 7’2.5” wingspan. Mix in his quickness and leaping ability and you have the recipe for a defender who can be switched onto almost anyone. Green has shown the ability to understand and execute defense in Memphis. This should be a big selling point for Wolves fans. This team does not need any more defensive turnstiles.

Ideal contract: Three years, $38 million.

#4 Serge “Air Congo” Ibaka

2016-17 per game: 14.8 PTS, 6.8 REB, 1.6 BLK, 54.3 eFG%

Serge Ibaka has had a rough couple of years. During his last two years in Oklahoma City he saw his role slowly diminish due to the continued emergence of both Durant and Westbrook. This last offseason he was traded to the Orlando Magic (Serge, if you’re reading this, I am so sorry.)

Thankfully, the Toronto Raptors needed a versatile and aggressive power forward. Ibaka happened to be available at this seasons trade deadline. In eight postseason games for the Raptors, Ibaka has allowed opponents to shoot 42.2 percent when they are within six feet of the rim. Only Draymond Green has allowed a lower percentage, 40.7.

Throw in the fact that Serge connects on 39.1 percent of his threes and it’s easy to see why he would be a perfect fit for this Wolves team. Just a few years ago Ibaka was considered one of the premiere defensive talents in the league. He may have lost half a step but the instincts and tenacity are still there.

Ideal contract: Four years. $88 million. 

#5 P.J. Tucker

2016-17 per game: 6.7 PTS, 5.8 REB, 1.2 AST, 48.5 eFG%

Tucker is a quintessential role player. He works hard. He's on the floor lunging for the loose ball. The role he performs requires him to do the things that no guy wants to. His impact on the floor doesn't always pop up in the box score. All guts and no glory. 

The Timberwolves desperately need a guy in Tucker's mold. At 6'6 and 245 lbs, P.J. can go toe to toe defensively with nearly every wing in the league. The Raptors would never admit this but the reality is that they traded for Tucker in desperate hope of hampering LeBron during the postseason. 

P.J. Tucker will never be a guy that opposing coaches game plan for. That doesn't mean he comes up empty on the offensive end. This year Tucker connected on 35.7% of his threes. That's an ok number. But, so long as Tucker limits his three point attempts to the corner, he's golden. From the right corner, Tucker converted 37.7 percent of his looks. From the opposite corner, Tucker dropped 40.5 percent of his attempts through the bottom of the net. 

Ideal contract: Three years, $33 million. 
 
Well there you have it. I’m hoping at least one of these guys will be suited up in the Timberwolves midnight blue and aurora green next year. But we’ll just have to be patient and see. The Timberwolves have yet to know where they’re drafting and what they’re going to do with that pick. But, more on that later.

By: Dan Slaubaugh

​It's safe to say that the relatively new Minnesota Timberwolves front office members, Tom Thibodeau and Scott Layden, have their work cut out for them this offseason. Their big decisions will define what the Wolves roster looks like heading into training camp.

The Wolves will have more than than $30 million in salary cap space - assuming Pek's salary comes off the books - to work with when free agency begins July 30. Minnesota could also have a top three draft pick when lottery positions are announced in May. That’s plenty of money, and assets, which should have a big impact on the roster.

Here's what Minnesota's summer schedule looks like:

May 16: NBA Draft Lottery
June 22: NBA Draft (ESPN, 7PM EST)
June 30: Teams can start negotiating with players, but can't officially sign until July 7
July 1: NBA Summer League Begins
July 17: NBA Summer League ends

Now, let's analyze what each event means to the Timberwolves.

NBA Draft Lottery

The Timberwolves are in unique position regarding this year's Draft Lottery. They have an 18.3 percent chance of landing a top three pick, and an 5.3 percent chance of landing the number one overall pick. While an 18.3 percent chance at landing a top three pick isn't great odds, there is a realistic chance the Wolves could move up. 

If the Wolves do in fact land one of the first three selections, the likeliness of them trading it decreases significantly. If a top two pick falls into Minnesota's lap, it is all but certain Thibodeau will use it to select Markelle Fultz (PG, UW) or Lonzo Ball (PG, UCLA), who are the consensus top guards in this draft class.

Here are the draft odds the Wolves have of landing each of the picks 1-9. (It is not possible for them to drop out of the top nine due of their bottom six finish.)

1st pick: 5.3 percent
2nd pick: 6.0 percent
3rd pick: 7.0 percent
6th pick: 43.9 percent
7th pick: 30.5 percent
8th pick: 5.0 percent
9th pick: .1 percent

NBA Draft

When this day arrives, we likely won't know if Thibodeau will use this top nine pick to actually draft a player. Because the Wolves traded their 2018 first round pick to Atlanta for Adreian Payne (lol), they can't trade the pick until they've selected the player due to the fact that teams can't trade first round draft picks in back-to-back years. Nonetheless, rumors have already begun swirling suggesting the Wolves could trade their first round selection.

I could go through players that the Wolves should look at drafting, but we don't even know where the Wolves will be positioned yet, so it's pretty much a waste of time. No need to worry though. I'm certain there will be a significant amount of coverage about the topic among the many Timberwolves media outlets (including ours) leading up to draft day.

Important to note: On April 18, the Wolves and Knicks faced off in a league-sanctioned drawing that decided who receives the higher pick in the 2017 NBA Draft if neither team jumps into the top three. Minnesota won, and therefore will hold the sixth pick if neither team draws luck. There is still an 18.2 percent chance the Knicks can jump them in the lottery, and vice-versa.

The drawing did not affect lottery odds—both the Wolves and Knicks have an 18.2 percent chance at landing in the top three and 5.3. percent chance of grabbing the top overall spot. 

Free Agency Period

The biggest needs for the Wolves currently are frontcourt depth and a reliable perimeter shooter. There is a good chance Thibodeau will shore up one of those needs through the draft or by trading their pick for an established player. With that, it is probable that they will use free agency to shore up the roster, unlike last summer's free agency. 

Thibodeau has said the Wolves will acquire players that align with the trajectory of the current roster. So this leads me to believe that whatever player that is signed/ traded for either is young enough to grow with the Wolves or old enough to contribute for two seasons max and fall off the books before the slew of contract extensions begin. This is precisely why I don’t believe Paul Millsap (32) is the guy for the job, considering he will want five years and max money.

Thibodeau's long-term goal should be to maximize the roster talent and potential of this team once LaVine, Wiggins and Towns hit their prime. Keep that in mind once the free agency period begins. 

We'll have an article coming out in the near future concerning Wolves free agent targets, so be on the lookout for that. A few names for thought: JJ Reddick, JaMychal Green, Taj Gibson, Patrick Patterson, and PJ Tucker.

NBA Summer League

If the Wolves use their pick to select a player in the top nine, the summer league games will be fun and entertaining to watch for us fans as we get to see our new young star in his first professional action.

However, if Minnesota doesn't add a member of the 2017 draft class, there might not be much to cover at this year's summer league as the Timberwolves don't own a second round pick. That is, if Thibodeau doesn't send second-year guard Kris Dunn to Las Vegas, which is a distinct possibility (I think he should).

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​The next couple of months will be a flurry for the Timberwolves organization and their fans. With the NBA Draft, Free Agency period and Summer League play all on the agenda, fans will be well entertained as they gear up for another exciting season of Timberwolves basketball. It's a season that could ultimately bring Minnesota out of its 13-year playoff drought. First order of business, though, is assembling the roster that can accomplish the feat.

Posted By: Dan Slaubaugh

On The Prowl's Dan Slaubaugh, Zach More, and Jonah Sprinkel review the 2016-17 season for Minnesota, which included another polarizing season from Andrew Wiggins, a historic offensive performance from Karl-Anthony Towns, and promising signs from Zach LaVine and Ricky Rubio.

General thoughts on the season

Dan Slaubaugh: It was disappointing. This team was projected to compete for a playoff spot, so finishing with 31 wins - just two more than last season - was a huge damper after bringing in the hottest coach (that sounds so weird) on the market. There were a few REALLY fun stretches during the season. The first being consecutive wins vs. Houston and OKC at home on January 11, 13, respectively. Then in the beginning of March, they took down Utah, LAC, Golden State, and Washington in a matter of two weeks where they ranked top 10 in defensive rating, prompting many people to think they had officially turned the corner. Unfortunately, that did not happen and they went 3-13 in the final 16 games.

Zach More: If I had to sum up this season in one word it would have to be “disappointing”. This was supposed to be the season that Minnesota competed for a playoff spot or at least played good basketball with visible improvements on the court. This obviously didn’t happen, especially on the defensive end. There were some positives like Ricky’s offense, KAT’s season but all in all it’s hard to have a positive feel about the season.

Jonah Sprinkel: Overall I would say that I am disappointed with how this last season went. Maybe I expected too much out of this team. Three different head coaches in three years is a lot, especially when one passes away right before the season.

Thoughts on Karl-Anthony Towns sophomore season

DS: Watching Karl-Anthony Towns on offense is almost as equally as exciting as watching my mom take fresh baked cookies out of the oven. His offensive skillset is incredible with so many weapons to go to whenever he pleases. On the flip side, watching KAT's lucklaster defense is disheartening and might prevent him from earning All-NBA awards this season. Like many others on Minnesota's roster, the next step in their development is learning how to play team defense. That being said, averaging 25 and 12 on 54/37/83 as a 21-year old is unheard of. Plus, the dude stays healthy (hasn't missed a game in his career). We're lucky to have you, KAT. Enjoy the boat loads of money you're going to make in your NBA career.

ZM: Karl-Anthony Towns is a fantastic basketball player and we are extremely lucky he is in a Wolves uniform. KAT became a threat whenever and wherever he touched the ball. KAT was a force in the block, mid-range a three point threat (shot 36.7%). KAT throughout the year became smarter on his shot selection and became a better passer. When KAT starts getting the “star calls” from officials he will be even better. KAT does however need to improve on the defensive end of the court with positioning and effort.

JS: There are two sides to this question; Towns’ offensive season and Towns’ defensive season.

Towns’ put together the single best offensive season in franchise history. He became the only NBA player to log 2000 points, 1000 rebounds and 100 three pointers made in a season. Towns could stop working on his offensive game all together and it would still be considered one of the best in the league at age 21.

And maybe he should stop working on offense to focus solely on defense (I’m only partly kidding). With all the time Towns spent with KG I really hoped that some of Garnett’s defensive tenacity as well as the understanding of just how important defense is would be passed on. That did not happen. At all.

Thoughts on Andrew Wiggins third season

DS: At this point, I think we can all agree that Andrew Wiggins is a polarizing player. The former Jayhawk averaged 23.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in his third NBA season while playing mostly average defense against opposing wings. The most encouraging thing from Wiggins this season was his improvement from beyond the arc, where he shot 35.6 percent - up from 30 percent last season. He still takes too many contested mid-range jumpers - one of the most inefficient shots in the game - and needs to attack the rim with more consistency. Tightening up his handles, getting stronger, and working on that already-improved jump shot will be Wiggins' focus this offseason.

ZM: Andrew Wiggins can score the ball, there is no doubt about that. All in all I thought Andrew Wiggins had a good season. Wiggins shot his best percentage from the 3 point line of his young career and it was obvious he felt more comfortable shooting from long range. Wiggins like the others definitely needs to take some responsibility on the defensive end of the floor. Wiggins has things to work on, like Rebounding, FT’s, strength and efficiency but he can still be a star in this league.

JS: Wiggins did what any third-year player should do. Tighten up his game. His court vision was greatly improved. His post-game was much more methodical. His handles were cleaner; so much so that this allowed him to operate out of the pick and roll. Can you imagine Towns and Wiggins in their mid-20s running a pick and roll?

Wiggins also improved his outside shooting, something that he should rely more on in the future.

Thoughts on Ricky Rubio’s late season surge

DS: ​The one thing the Wolves can look at and be encouraged about is Ricky Rubio's development into a complete point guard. He was a terrible shooter and that really took away from the rest of his game in which he is an elite passer, very good defender, and good all-around glue guy. But he just couldn't shoot. Then, post All-Star break, Rubio averaged 16.0 points and 10.5 assists on 42 percent shooting and 35.3 percent from three-point range. Those numbers suggest the Wolves have something to cling to their as one of the few positives of the 2016-17 season, which they need because in general it was a disappointing season.

ZM: Ricky was fun to watch on a nightly basis this season. During the second half of the season I found myself excited to watch games just because I wanted to see what new or exciting thing he would do that night. Ricky showed that he is very important to this team and is the type of point guard that fits well with the other star players.

JS: This is the Rubio that Wolves fans thought they were getting in 2009. We can talk all we want about how great he was on both sides of the ball but I think the true story here is how much of a leader he was throughout the year. Ricky has never been a vocal guy, and he doesn’t have to be. He led by example. Always hustling, always competing and continually dropping crazy dimes. Never change, Ricky.

Thoughts on Zach LaVine’s injury

DS: Before LaVine tore his ACL - which was the saddest I've been about an injury to an athlete in a long time - it was a joy to watch him develop into the Wolves best outside threat and a lethal weapon in transition. His season ended with 120 made three-pointers (47 games), which is seventh all-time in a season for a Wolves player. He did all of this while hitting 38.7 percent from deep and 57.6 percent true shooting mark. His biggest issue was team defense, where he continually struggled to fill gaps off the ball and execute help-side defense. Concerning the injury, few work harder than LaVine. He will make it back and be a big part of an organization that still considers him to be a big part of their future.

ZM: The LaVine injury was such a tough break for him and the Wolves this season. Although right after the injury the Wolves went on a nice run, the team came back down to earth and it was clear this team needs a player like LaVine. The injury also came at bad time for LaVine who was getting better on a nightly basis. The missed time playing in Thibs system and with his teammates will hurt but I think he can make that up with a good off-season of film and talking with coaches. Let’s hope the rehab continues to go well and we see him back at full strength as soon as possible.

JS: It would’ve been a lot of fun to see this team finish out they year together. Though there are a lot of “if’s” if Zach were healthy. Does the defense improve during that late February/early March run? Do they make a better run at the 8 seed? Does Towns finish off the greatest offensive season in Wolves history? Zach’s injury leaves a lot of question up in the air headed into next year.

Thoughts on Kris Dunn’s rookie season

DS: I found it pretty amazing how bad Kris Dunn was offensively (3.8p, 2.4a - 37% FG, 29% 3PTFG) and how little he improved on that end throughout the year. Defensively is where he makes the biggest impact on the floor, drawing many comparisons to Tony Allen, Andre Roberson, and Patrick Beverley. He's going to be legit on that end for many years to come, which is very valuable for a team desperate for gritty, tough defensive players. One thing we found out he isn't is a point guard, so that idea is likely over.

ZM: I don’t think anyone who watched the Wolves consistently this year can be happy with the season Dunn had. Dunn is plus defender as advertised but his offense was so low that on a lot of nights the team was playing 4 on 5 on offense. Dunn is going to need to improve in every aspect of the game. It seemed Thibs played him more off the ball in the second half of the season. It will be interesting to see after an off-season of working with the coaches if the coaches see him more as a PG.

JS: By most standard’s Dunn’s rookie year will probably be considered a bust. Not the player, just his first season. This is due to where Dunn was selected in the draft. If the Wolves had taken Dunn with the 20th overall pick most people wouldn’t be complaining. The Wolves ended up with an NBA quality defensive guard who will see at the very least, rotational minutes. Dunn is not a good value pick because he was selected at #5. But any time a team can add a NBA player through the draft it is a good move.

What was the biggest surprise this season?

DS: I've already touched on this, but the biggest surprise was Ricky Rubio's shooting surge after the All-Star break. It was truly a joy to watch him silence the haters.

ZM: To me the biggest surprise was Ricky’s offense in the second half of the season. We haven’t seen that type of confidence from Ricky in his whole career. It seemed on a nightly basis he was out there making great offensive and defensive plays. If he can just continue to be somewhat of a threat it will force defenses to make tough decisions. Another surprise to me if you can call it that, was the health of the team. 3 players playing all 82 games is something you just don’t see.

JS: Ricky Rubio’s offensive output post All-Star break brought life to this team. He was a modern-day magician on the court. #RickyForPresident

What was the biggest disappointment?

DS: Tom Thibodeau's failure to understand minute distribution. I thought him spending all this time with other organizations - Spurs specifically - would change his mind. I guess not. If he didn't have the minutes issue, he'd probably be considered one of the very top coaches in the league. I'm truly scared that Wiggins and Towns are going to burn out down the stretch next year - when they'll likely be competing for a playoff spot - because all the minutes will have caught up to them. He HAS to get this team a bench this offseason - one he feels he can actually use.

ZM: The biggest disappointment besides the record in general was the defensive effort. The Wolves early in the season looked completely lost on defense and it was concerning but we blamed it on being a new and complicated system. There was then a 9 game stretch where the defense was great and we thought they turned a corner, that definitely didn’t happen and the defense went back to being as bad as it was early in the year. The effort level seemed to be a big part of that.

JS: The defense. I knew they would struggle initially and possibly through the midway point of the season, but I did not imagine it would be a season long thing.

Not making the playoffs.

Future outlook

DS: The "honeymoon phase" is over. It's time for Thibs to dish out some money to capable vets and rotation players in free agency. This organization needs to start winning sometime in order to establish a winning culture. That starts with Tom Thibodeau as POBO this offseason. It's up to him to complement these young studs with steady rotational players. If he can do that and this team can figure out how to be league-average defensively next season under the cruel tutelage of their head coach, playoffs are realistic. If not, questions will be looming everywhere within the organization and it won't be pretty. It finally feels like next year is officially a "playoffs or bust" year. Youth can no longer be an excuse, have a dominant big and good wing, all new renovations, Thibs as the coach and angry fans. Need to win now.

ZM: Still bright. The young talent on this team is second to none and they have money to spend and might have a top-3 pick in June. *Knocks on wood

JS: I think the Wolves could be a playoff team in 2018. I mean honestly, there's no reason they can't be, especially with a head coach returning for the first time in four years. But that same head coach will need to execute this offseason by bringing in capable vets and rotational players to help the team's depth.

Favorite moment of the season

DS: Minny's 103-102 win over Golden State on March 10 in front of the largest crowd in Target Center history (20,412). Was the franchises biggest win in the eight years I've followed the team.

ZM: Same as Dan

JS: Every time Thibs yelled “ICE”. Just kidding, Wiggins game winner over Phoenix.

Team MVP

DS: Karl-Anthony Towns

ZM: Karl-Anthony Towns

JS: Karl-Anthony Towns

Most Improved

DS: Zach LaVine

ZM: Shabazz Muhammad

JS: Zach LaVine

Best Defensive Player

DS: Ricky Rubio

ZM: Ricky Rubio

JS: Ricky Rubio

Most Outstanding Performance

DS: Ricky Rubio pouring in 22 points and a franchise-record 19 assists in Minnesota’s 119-104 win over Washington at Target Center.

ZM: Same as Dan

JS: Karl-Anthony Towns against the Knicks in Target Center

Also, Tom Thibodeau for standing more total minutes than his free agent signings.

Most impressive individual play (dunk, pass, shot, etc.)

DS: Andrew Wiggins yam on Mr. Shaqtin A Fool (AKA Javale McGee)

ZM: Well it’s not an individual play but the one that sticks out most is the hustle play on defense that lead to a 3 passes with no dribbles and a Bazz alley-oop dunk.

JS: Wiggins game winner over Phoenix

Favorite game

DS: The win over Golden State

ZM: The win over Golden State

JS: March 1, win over the Jazz

Thanks for reading. Hope you all enjoyed.

Be sure to follow On The Prowl (@OnTheProwl_MN) on Twitter and Like OTP on Facebook for extensive coverage of the Minnesota Timberwolves this offseason.

Posted By: Dan Slaubaugh

With the NBA season now over, it is time for the On The Prowl staff (minus Tim who is going full-adult and is too busy) to make their predictions on the various end-of-season awards for the NBA.

Rookie of the Year

Dan Slaubaugh: This should be the easiest rookie-of-the-year pick imaginable. Joel Embiid was by far the best and most productive rookie this season, but he only played 31 games. Therefore, I'm going with Malcom Brogdon. He was the most consistent player out of all the candidates and provided steady defense, shooting, and playmaking for a playoff team.

Zach More: Dario Saric - As much as I want to pick Embiid I just can’t pick a guy whole played half the games for his team. I instead am picking his teammate who had great stretches during the year, especially on the offensive end. He led all rookies scoring and played 81 games, that’s good enough for me this year.

Jonah Sprinkel: Joel Embiid. He was the best rookie by a mile. When Embiid was on the floor the opposing team’s offense played like the worst offense in the league (102.1 Offensive rating). When he sat, his opponents played like a top 10 offense.

Most Improved Player

DS: Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freek made massive strides in his fourth NBA season averaging 22.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.9 blocks and 1.6 steals per game. Giannis also became the first player in NBA history to post such a stat line - all while shooting 52.1 percent from the field and doubling as the team's most versatile defender and reim protector. Nikola Jokic is a close second.
​
ZM: Nikola Jokic. He had a great all around year. He went from big potential to a big time player. He is the real deal.

JS: Giannis Antetokounmpo. Usually MIP goes to a guy who received a greatly increased role. That’s just not the case here. Giannis’ Usage Percentage rose by only 6% and he is the true franchise player making MVP caliber plays.

6th Man of the Year

DS: Andre Iguodola. His numbers probably don't define "sixth man of the year", but his on-court impact (playmaking, defense, IQ) was undeniably great. He shot a career-high 52.8 percent from the field and also made 36.2 percent of his threes. With Kevin Durant out, Iguodala was sensational for the Warriors, who managed to win 14 games staright without their best player. Overall, Igyy's on-court impact on both sides of the court wins my (hypothetical) vote.
​
ZM: Eric Gordon. He has been awesome for Houston. He is perfect as the 6th man on that team. Without Gordon that team is not as high in the standings as they are.

JS: Eric Gordon. Only three players this year have connected on more threes than Gordon. Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and James Harden.

Defensive Player of the Year

DS: Rudy Gobert. Finished first in DRPM, DWS, BLK%, and DRtg. His defensive presence and shot blocking ability don't make for a very fun night for opposing bigs. He's also been pretty good switching on pick-and-rolls this season, which is vital against the Chris Pauls and James Hardens of the world. Bottom line: YOU CAN'T AVOID THE STILE TOWER.

ZM: Rudy Gobert. He impacts the game so much on the defensive end of the court. He impacts the opponent’s gameplan on a nightly basis and makes big and guards second think about going up for shots in the lane.

JS: Kawhi Leonard. This year Leonard blossomed into a true go to scoring threat and a MVP candidate. He did all this while continually matching up with and shutting down the oppositions best scoring threat. It has gotten to the point with Kawhi that coaches at times will simply have their best scorer stand in the corner, away from the play, in order to negate Kawhi.

Coach of the Year

DS: Mike D' Antoni. Implemented an offense that had the tenth-best regular-season of all-time. Unleashed James Harden as a full-time point guard which quickly morphed into the best James Harden we've ever seen, hiking his assist rate on his teammates' buckets from last season's 35 percent to better than 50 percent this season. Also unleashed Eric Gordon's three-point shot like never before, culprit for Gordon's breakout season and sixth man of the year consideration. Coached a fringe-playoff team into a real contender with only one true superstar. Brad Stevens, Gregg Popovich, and Erik Spoelstra all deserving candidates as well.

ZM: Mike D’Antoni – D’Antoni took the Houston Rockets, a team many believed that would compete for a bottom playoff spot in the West and made them a force. His concepts work great with the shooters he has and Harden bought in.

JS: Gregg Popovich. 61 wins with one All Star and a beautifully designed system. The award should be renamed after Pop.

MVP

DS: Man this was tough. And I really don't think there is a wrong answer here. But after long consideration, I went with James Harden, who was the most productive playmaker for his teammates in the league + engineered one of the most effective and forward-thinking offenses (the tenth best regular-season offense of all-time) in the 21st century. Additionally, his team - which he lead - was easily the NBA's biggest overachiever and boasted one of the league's best record. Harden legit made a fringe-playoff team into a contender that has a punchers shot at a title. Again, there's no wrong answer here and many great cases for all the four main candidates (Harden, Westbrook, Leonard, James).

ZM: Russell Westbrook. There is a case to be made for Harden here but I think Westbrook deserves this award. The numbers he put up were just absurd whether his team helped inflate them or not. Another big reason I think Westbrook is deserving is OKC is a bottom 10 team in the league without him and he has them 6th in the West.

JS: Russell Westbrook. Get in to all the advanced stats and measurements that you like. All four candidates, Russ, Harden, Kawhi and Lebron, are extremely close to each other. But this was the year of Russ. As soon as Durant just Golden State everyone knew that it was Russ’ time. And he delivered night and night again. He led the league in scoring, averaged a triple double, and literally forced his team to win games.

All-NBA 1st team

DS: Westbrook, Harden, LeBron, Leonard, Gobert​

ZM: Westbrook, Harden, LeBron, Leonard, Gobert

JS: Westbrook, Harden, LeBron, Leonard, Davis

All-NBA 2nd team

DS: Curry, Thomas, Butler, Antetokounmpo, Davis

ZM: Curry, Thomas, Durant, Antetokounmpo, Davis

JS: Curry, Wall, Durant, Antetokounmpo, Gobert

All-NBA 3rd team

DS: Wall, Lilliard, Durant, Green, Gasol

ZM: Wall, Lilliard, George, Green, Towns

JS: Thomas, Paul, Butler, Green, Gasol

All-Defense 1st team

DS: Paul, Green, Leonard, Green, Gobert

ZM: Paul, Leonard, Antekokounmpo, Green, Gobert

JS: Paul, Allen, Leonard, Green, Gobert

All-Defense 2nd team

DS: Beverley, Allen, Roberson, Millsap, Davis

ZM: Paul, Caldwell-Pope, George, Millsap, Whiteside

JS: Beverley, Allen, Roberson, Millsap, Davis

All-Rookie 1st team

DS: Brogdon, Hernangomez, Hield, Saric, Embiid

ZM: Murray, Hield,Brogdon, Saric, Embiid

JS: Brogdon, Hernangomez, Hield, Saric, Embiid

All-Rookie 2nd team

DS: Murray, Brown, McGruder, Ingram, LeVert

ZM: Whitehead, Chriss, Brown, Ingram, Hernangomez

JS: Murray, Brown, McGruder, Ingram, LeVert

NBA Playoffs Predictions

DS: Warriors over Blazers in 5
Clippers over Jazz in 7
Rockets over Thunder in 5
Spurs over Grizzlies in 4

Celtics over Bulls in 5
Wizards over Hawks in 6
Raptors over Bucks in 6
Cavs over Pacers in 4

Warriors over Clippers in 6
Spurs over Rockets in 7

Celtics over Wizards in 7
Cavs over Raptors in 7

Warriors over Spurs in 6
Cavs over Celtics in 6

Warriors over Cavs in 6
Finals MVP - Curry

ZM: Warriors over Blazers in 6
Clippers over Jazz in 6
Rockets over Thunder in 5
Spurs over Grizzlies in 5

Celtics over Bulls in 6
Wizards over Hawks in 6
Raptors over Bucks in 7
Cavs over Pacers in 5

Warriors over Clippers in 5
Spurs over Rockets in 7

Celtics over Wizards in 7
Cavs over Raptors in 7

Warriors over Spurs in 6
Cavs over Celtics in 6

Warriors over Cavs in 6
Finals MVP - Durant

JS: Warriors over Blazers in 5
Spurs over Grizzlies in 5
Rockets over Thunder in 6
Jazz over Clippers in 5

Celtics over Bulls in 5
Cavs over Pacers in 4
Raptors over Bucks in 6
Wizards over Hawks in 6

Warriors over Jazz in 4
Rockets over Spurs in 6

Wizards over Celtics in 7
Cavs over Raptors in 5

Warriors over Rockets in 5
Cavs over Wizards in 5

Cavs over Warriors in 7
Finals MVP - James