2024 NBA Mock Draft: Spurs prioritize two-way talents, Magic land surprise steal
By Reese Kunz
Pick No. 27: Minnesota Timberwolves select Terrence Shannon Jr.
After making the Western Conference Finals and having a legitimate chance of making the NBA Finals next season, the Minnesota Timberwolves now find themselves in the position to target a draft prospect who can help them contribute immediately. Illinois guard Terrence Shannon Jr. fits this mold as a 23–year–old senior who averaged 23 points, four rebounds, 2.3 assists, and one steal per game on 48/36/80 shooting splits.
Shannon was arguably a top-ten player in college basketball this past season. He particularly stood out in this year’s NCAA March Madness, scoring 29, 30, and 26 against Iowa State, Duquesne, and Morehead State, respectively. Shannon has always possessed tremendous athleticism and positional size at 6-foot-6. Arguably, the most significant jump he has made in college is figuring out how to utilize those physical tools to become more of a two-way guard. Shannon's defensive improvement could be just the thing that catapults him into the first round.
The Timberwolves have Kyle Anderson, Jordan McLaughlin, and Monte Morris as unrestricted free agents. They could use more help in their backcourt depth, and Shannon Jr. would be able to come in and provide productive minutes right away.