Minnesota Timberwolves: 5 reasons why Justin Patton was a good pick

Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Justin Patton (Creighton) is introduced by NBA commissioner Adam Silver as the number sixteen overall pick to the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 25, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Creighton Bluejays center Justin Patton (23) drives to the basket as Georgetown Hoyas center Jessie Govan (15) defends in the first half at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Athleticism

For a bigger guy, Patton has excellent athleticism. His jumping and agility are above-average for someone of his stature.

He is light-footed and able to move quickly without the ball. Because of that he often cuts to the basket to beat his defender for a score. This results in a lot of lob passes and dunks.

Because of this quickness he is also effective at guarding multiple positions on a hedge or a complete switch. This makes him a very versatile defender. That is something that Dieng and Towns are both working to improve.

His ability to leap also gives him an advantage. Patton blocks shots and defends the rim. He uses his speed on defense to get to the ball.

Justin Patton’s athleticism also makes him a great fit for the young Minnesota Timberwolves.

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