NBA Mock Draft Series: Minnesota Timberwolves

Previous Picks:

1.) Chicago Bulls, Michael Beasley, Kansas State

2.) Miami Heat, Derrick Rose, Memphis

The NBA Mock Draft Series continues...

Minnesota failed to win a top two pick in the draft lottery, leaving them out of the Bealsey-Rose sweepstakes. 

Michael Beasley and Derrick Rose may be off the board—but Minnesota still has a chance to get an impact player with the third pick in the 2008 Draft.

Kevin McHale and Fred Hoiberg have the decision of drafting another big to complement Al Jefferson, a wing player or a point guard.

As far as their big men, the T-Wolves have Jefferson and Craig Smith—who has  tremendous upside with this team. The point guard position consists of only Marko Jaric and Sebastian Telfair, who will be a unrestricted free agent after this season.

“I think we’re going to get a player who will help this roster right away regardless of where we pick. This is a big year to move up. There are a couple of players who I think could really help accelerate the building process, but even if we don’t get one of the top two picks, still think there are some players who’d fit well with the players we have".--Fred Hoiberg

Randy Foye has the potential to become Minnesota's best scorer, if he can stay healthy. Also, Rashad McCants and Corey Brewer will also be two more scoring options for the T-Wolves next season.

With all that said, Minnesota could use a reliable point guard to complement Jefferson and Foye for next season.

So, with the third pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves select D.J. Augustin out of University of Texas.

Augustin's size (5'11) could effect his stock as a top three player, but Minnesota could benefit from drafting him.

The Timberwolves have the pieces to improve their winning percentage from the 2007 season—and Augustin's strengths could be a plus for this team.

Augustin has the ability to both score and pass, and is good in transition.   He also is an unselfish player who has great court vision and great fundamentals.

He is a good shooter, but his shot selection is sometimes questionable. 

A problem that will occur for Augustin though is ability to play defense, especially against bigger guards like Chauncey Billups or Deron Williams.

Augustin was sucessful with the pick and roll, and draws some comparisons to Mike Bibby because of that attribute.

Brook Lopez and O.J. Mayo will realistically come out as Minnesota's best man for the draft, but passing on Augustin wouldn't be a wise decision if you're Kevin McHale and Fred Hoiberg.

Michael Whittenberg is one of two NBA Community Leaders for Bleacherreport.com