Account
Gorgui Dieng Traded to Minnesota Timberwolves: Scouting Report and Analysis
June 28, 2013
With the 21st pick of the 2013 NBA draft, the Utah Jazz selected Gorgui Dieng from University of Louisville and subsequently traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Trey Burke.
Here's everything you need to know about Dieng:
Physical Tools
Bleacher Report NBA Draft Lead Writer Jonathan Wasserman breaks down Dieng's physical attributes:
Dieng sports a massive wingspan in the 7'4'' range. And at 6'11'', Dieng essentially eats space in the paint like a giant refrigerator in a tiny kitchen.
He's not the most explosive athlete, but Dieng is deceptively agile, with the ability to elude defenders and contest arms at the rim. In terms of strength, there's still room for added bulk on his upper and lower body, but this shouldn't be a problem as he ages and develops physically.
Getting to Know Gorgui Dieng
In the past four years, Dieng went from Senegal, to Huntington Prep in West Virginia, to Louisville and now to the NBA. He exudes unselfishness, for he wants to grow as a player only because he wants to be a part of successful teams.
NBA Player Comparison
As a shot-blocker who can consistently bury the mid-range shot, Dieng compares to Oklahoma City Thunder standout Serge Ibaka. Dieng may end up being a better deep-post threat, though.
His worst-case scenario translates to a more efficient, productive version of Bismack Biyombo.
Pro Predictions
Dieng will undoubtedly be a strong defensive presence from the outset of his pro career. His length, instincts and developing awareness will serve him well as a one-on-one stopper and a weak-side helper.
Although he won't be a featured post player, Dieng will chip in offensively with elbow jumpers and the occasional back-to-the-basket move.
He probably won't ever become an All-Star, but you can bet his name will be on the NBA All-Defensive team in a few years.