NBA Draft 2011: Derrick Williams Is the Right Choice for the Timberwolves

I am more excited about Minnesota Timberwolves basketball than I have been since 2004. Derrick Williams was the right choice for this young team. He may not fill a need and he may be a lot like our second best player, but this young man has a lot of things going for him that could change the culture around this team.

First, Williams wants to be in the NBA. He wants to improve himself and he wants to win. The former Wildcat was not even listed in one of the top 100 prospects coming out of high school. He took it upon himself to learn, improve and make a name for himself. Who is the last player that we have drafted that can say that?

Second, he has superstar potential. We have been content with mediocrity for too long. Derrick Williams has "monster player" written all over him. It's refreshing to see the Wolves take a risk with this pick. Think of our last few picks (I'm taking Love out of the mix because he has proved himself): Johnson, Flynn and Brewer. Were any of these players going to be superstars? Probably not. For the sake of the franchise, we NEED a superstar who develops in our system. Williams will sell tickets, create buzz and possibly convince other good players to come to this team.  

Third, I previously said that the Wolves should not have confusion or questions going in to the season, but I would rather play risky with the cards we have been dealt, rather than playing it safe with low ceiling players. Williams is exciting, energizing and could make this team raise a few eyebrows.

I know this team is not going to compete with the elite teams of the NBA...yet. However, all good things start small. This team has energy, young talent and most importantly, buzz.

This team has been playing in fourth place among Minnesota pro sports teams. I can feel the cold basketball winds of changing blowing in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.