Some believe Obi Toppin could go No. 1, and most projections have him in the top-five. Minnesota could look to sure up the frontcourt next to Karl-Anthony Towns, and Toppin has great appeal as another versatile offensive weapon. Both he and Towns can penetrate the defense and cause damage from various spots on the floor.
Toppin was the best player in college basketball last season, which counts for something in a class of relative uncertainties. He can space the floor, work inside, play the mid-range game. He’s a smart passer, an effective screener, and he should contribute early on at the next level.
The concern here is defense. Minnesota doesn’t have the strongest defensive core in Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell. Toppin wasn’t a bad defender at Dayton, but his stiffness and lack of lateral quickness could make him vulnerable in the NBA. The Wolves would need to prioritize good defenders later in the draft and in free agency.