Ex-Gophers forward Trevor Mbakwe was among of group of players working out for the Timberwolves on Monday, just nine days before next week’s NBA Draft.
The Pioneer Press reports that Mbakwe showed off some impressive shooting skills during his workout. So much so that he was given a round of applause by fellow draft prospects and members of the Timberwolves’ coaching staff.
“I’m probably in the best shape of my life so far right now, coming back from my ACL,” Mbakwe said. “I’ve been working on my 15-to-17-foot jump shot. It’s something I’ve improved on since the season has been over with.”
If Mbakwe ends up being drafted by the Timberwolves, president of basketball operations Flip Saunders says he won’t want Mbakwe shooting the ball.
“As a coach, you don’t want him to shoot. But you want him getting better at what he can’t do so he isn’t lost in certain situations.”
Saunders said Mbakwe is at his best as a defender, shot blocker and rebound.
Other prospects working out for the Wolves on Monday were: Reggie Bullock of North Carolina, Tony Snell of New Mexico, Deshaun Thomas of Ohio State, Carrick Felix of Arizona State and Jason Washburn of Utah.
The Star Tribune reports that Lehigh guard C.J. McCollum is expected to work out for the Wolves on Tuesday.
In a text message to BringMeTheNews, Mbakwe said he’ll work out for the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday.
