Minnesota Timberwolves 2011-2012 roster breakdown
With the additions of Spanish sensation Ricky Rubio, number 2 overall pick Derrick Williams and with Rick Adelman now at the helm, the Timberwolves future has never been brighter. Its time to take a look at the Wolves roster and the roles and strengths of each player.
Center-
Darko Milicic-An enigmatic player, Milicic, the former 2nd overall pick in the 2003 draft, had his career resurrected after the wolves traded for him at the trade deadline during the ’09-10 season. A huge body down low, Milicic is inconsistent offensively but did average 2 blocks in 24:23 mpg a year ago.
Power Forward
Kevin Love-Fresh off an incredible year statistically (20.2 ppg, 15.2 rpg) K-Love will be looking for a max contract from the Wolves or any other team willing to shell out the dough. A good scorer down low and elite rebounder, Love has also developed the ability to step out and hit a three-pointer when needed. Underwhelming athletically, and a well below average defender, it remains to be seen if Love is deserving of the max money that he seeks.
Small Forward
Michael Beasley– One of the most dominate collegiate players of all time, Beasley is the Wolves’ most gifted offensive player. However from a fan’s perspective, is also one of the most frustrating. Is as capable of jaw dropping performances on the hardwood as he is getting in to off-court issues, Beasley is the riddle wrapped up in an enigma type of player the Wolves have lacked since the days of Isaiah JR Junior Rider. Possessing an impressive all- around offensive repertoire, Beasley is one of few Timberwolves with the ability to create his own shot. Has the ability to play inside or out, displays good iso skills (though favors going to his left) and has a pretty reliable mid-range and three-point shot. A capable defender when the effort is there, the 2nd overall pick in the 2008 draft could be an elite player in the league if he gets his act together.
Shooting Guard
Wes Johnson-The Wolves’ top pick in the 2010 draft, Johnson struggled playing out of position last year in coach Rambis’ “triangle” offense. This year, Johnson could be the greatest benefactor of Rubio’s arrival to the team. With his limitations handling the ball, most of his points are likely to come spotting up beyond the arc, or on the oop end of a Rubio alley.
Point Guard
Ricky Rubio-After two years over-seas Rubio’s arrival gives this franchise potentially it’s first legit point guard since Sam Cassell. The flashy Spaniard has seen comparisons from Jason Williams to “Pistol” Pete Maravich. While Rubio might be closer to the former than the latter, he will be a huge upgrade over the likes of slouch point guards of the past Marcus Banks, Sebastian Telfair, Jonny Flynn and Luke Ridnour. Rubio should provide some highlight reel plays with the athletes surrounding him and bring a little excitement back to a franchise that is in desperate need of some positivity.
The Bench
Derrick Williams-The 2nd overall pick in this year’s draft, look for the explosive Williams to battle with Michael Beasley for playing time at the 3 and 4. At 6’8″ 241 lbs Williams is somewhat of a tweener playing at a redundant position on this team with Love and Beasley, but possesses the talent to potentially be a star in this league for years to come.
J.J. Barea-A water bug of a point guard, Barea made a name for himself in last year’s playoffs with the Mavericks. Has the ability to drive and dish and should open up some shots for the team’s perimeter players.
Luke Ridnour-Could be the odd man out with the addition of Barea, Ridnour is the leading candidate to become the team’s first amnesty cut established by the rules of the new CBA.
Nikola Pekovich-A gigantic, beast of a man, forward Nikola Pekovich is nothing more than an intimidating presence on the team and is another candidate for the amnesty cut. Seems like a better fit for the octagon than the hardwood.
Malcolm Lee-The team’s 2nd round pick in this year’s draft, Lee has a chance to see significant playing time both at the 1 and 2. A great ball handling guard, Lee has the potential to become a capable defender in the NBA.
Martell Webster-Webster will begin the season on the I.R. this year as he recovers from back surgery he underwent during the summer. A capable bench player when healthy, Webster has had lingering back problems ever since his arrival from Portland in 2010.
Anthony Tolliver-An underrated roll player, Tolliver is a nice player to have off the bench. Possesses good length and surprising three point range.
Wayne Ellington-A former first round pick, Ellington seems destined to the glitzy niche of bench-warmer/role player in this league. While not terribly athletic, Ellington is inconsistent with his shot and possesses zero charisma or personality.
Brad Miller-Once an intimidating big man in this league, the aging former sixth man of the year award winner’s only asset seems to be his $4.7 million salary coming off the books at the end of the year.
Anthony Randolph-A David Kahn prototypical player, Randolph’s length and elite athleticism makes him a threat on the glass and around the rim. Possesses exceptional handles for a big man and is not afraid to put the ball on the floor. With increased playing time and Rubio now running the point, Randolph, the 14th overall pick in 2008, could be destined for a breakout year.