Josh Okogie Can Evolve Into The Minnesota Timberwolves Superstar Player
Minnesota Timberwolves' Josh Okogie of Nigeria plays against the Indiana Pacers in the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Jim Mone)
Andrew Wiggins isn’t going anywhere. The Minnesota Timberwolves wouldn’t dare move him. However, on the off chance they do, Josh Okogie can more than makeup for his production. It might not show as much this season, but the future is a much different story.
Okogie, a rookie from Georgia Tech, has been one of the league’s most surprising players. Selected by Minnesota with the 20th pick in the 2018 Draft, Okogie has looked like an NBA player. When needed, he doesn’t back down from the challenge of stepping up for the Wolves
If it weren’t for Andrew Wiggins, Okogie would be getting 30-38 minutes per night. He’s actually playing quite well getting that court time. While only averaging 10.8 points, he’s a +10.6. This signals that Okogie has some stellar defense. He’s needed on the court for defense during an increased workload. Compare that to Wiggins whose only a +0.1.
There have been games that Okogie has looked brilliant. While a lot of his contests have come with single-digit scoring, he’s more than capable of getting the ball in the basket. He’s especially effective in games that Wiggins doesn’t play. That’s when he showcases his skill.
While Wiggins is a permanent fixture in Minnesota, Okogie has the stuff to be the team’s leading scorer. Although, he does need to create his own shot with Wiggins on the court. On March 17th, he took 14 shots on the way to a 21 point performance. This came in a game without Wiggins. He took a combined 17 shots his four previous games.
Okogie can’t be afraid to shoot the ball. He’s a great scorer that has a bright future in the league. He’ll get nowhere if he doesn’t become a bit more aggressive. There are a lot of players that need the ball in Minnesota. Okogie should be in the mix for shots.
If the Minnesota Timberwolves are looking for talent to build around, Josh Okogie is a player they’ll consider. He’s a great scorer when he can get the ball. There will need to be a bit more assertiveness to his game, but he’s shown the ability to be a cornerstone to the Timberwolves roster.
Image Source: AP/ Jim Mone
Daniel is a guru of baseball and basketball prospects. He’s a very experienced Amusement Park traveler as well. Follow him and his hot takes on Insta @dgentleman9288
