Timberwolves Navigate Second Round Trades, Select International Talent

The Minnesota Timberwolves entered the second round of the NBA draft with the 31st overall pick, ready to entertain various trade offers. Their first-round selection at No. 17 was already secured for Joan Beringer, a 6-foot-11 shot-blocking prospect from France, but the allure of trade opportunities proved too enticing to ignore.

In a deal that sent the 31st pick to the Phoenix Suns, the Timberwolves acquired the 36th pick, which subsequently changed hands again, landing with the Los Angeles Lakers. This maneuver ultimately positioned Minnesota to select at 45th overall, where they opted for Rocco Zikarsky, a towering 7-foot-2 center from Australia.

For a franchise aiming for immediate success after consecutive appearances in the Western Conference finals, even their first-round choice was viewed through a developmental lens. Beringer, at just 18 years old and a latecomer to basketball, began his journey only four years ago.

Despite the common perception that second-round picks often struggle to make an impact in the NBA, recent changes to luxury tax regulations have elevated their significance. The Timberwolves, currently operating above the second apron with one of the league's highest payrolls, face a hefty tax bill and need cost-effective players to fill their roster.

"The team-building rules are restricted a little bit," general manager Matt Lloyd remarked after selecting Beringer. "We have to get our draft picks right, and then we have to be a part of player development."

This season, 2024 draft picks Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon found themselves on the fringes of coach Chris Finch's rotation. However, Shannon's notable progress on both ends of the court earned him valuable playoff minutes.

Next season, Beringer will follow a similar path, with veteran center Rudy Gobert—another French player—expected to mentor him in adapting to the NBA's demands and mastering paint protection.

After conducting a private workout with Beringer last weekend, the Timberwolves were convinced of his character and potential. "He's like a ball of clay. He was the third-youngest player in the draft. He plays an incredibly vital role in the league right now. His basket-protection is incredible," Lloyd stated. "What really kind of helped us solidify the final evaluation is just getting to meet him. He's a very serious person. He's very dedicated. He's very focused. He learned English in the last seven months."