Minnesota Timberwolves: 5 options for pick No. 48 in 2018 NBA Draft

By Luke Askew | May 25, 2018

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 15: NBA Draft Prospect, Malik Newman poses for a portrait during the 2018 NBA Combine circuit on May 15, 2018 at the Intercontinental Hotel Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

1. Malik Newman, SG — Kansas

Height: 6’3″
Weight: 178 lbs
Age: 21

As far as I’m concerned, Malik Newman is by far the best prospect for the Timberwolves at No. 48.

After a relatively disappointing freshman season at Mississippi State, Newman decided to transfer to Kansas and sit out a year. This decision paid off in a major way for Newman. The former five-star recruit reminded everyone why he was considered to be an outstanding talent.

During his one year at Kansas, Newman averaged 14.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 46.3 percent from the field, 41.5 percent from 3, and 83.5 percent from the free throw line.

Newman was the primary reason for Kansas making it to their first Final Four since 2012. In the NCAA Tournament, he averaged an outstanding 21.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game while frequently being tasked with the tough job of guarding the other team’s best perimeter player.

Check out some of his highlights from his 32-point performance against Duke in the Elite Eight:

https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/978053836941045761

Newman’s ability to score from all three levels of the floor and also defend on the other end ensure he will fill some necessary holes that the Timberwolves have. Also, his ability to play both on and off the ball should provide Thibs with some roster flexibility alongside the current bench unit.

Next: 2018 NBA Mock Draft - Doncic still No. 1 in post-lottery edition

If Newman falls to No. 48, there is no doubt in my mind that he would be the perfect fit on the Minnesota Timberwolves.

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