2024 NBA Mock Draft: Grizzlies add key piece in lottery, Pistons get future star
By Tyler Watts
28. Minnesota Timberwolves choose Juan Nunez
Nunez is only 19 but in his fourth season of professional basketball in Europe. He has blossomed into a starter for Ratiopharm Ulm in Germany. The 6’3 guard is averaging 10.9 points, 5.4 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.8 steals in 24.4 minutes per game. He has made 52.7 percent of his field goals on the back of an improvement in his outside shooting.
Nunez has made 39.7 percent of his 63 3-point attempts this season after shooting 29 percent over his 155 tracked threes over the previous four years. Consistently knocking down shots is a crucial piece of his success. Nunez is a strong playmaker and creator but needs the floor spacing piece to play a significant role in the NBA.
The 19-year-old continues to improve and could climb draft boards. He is a bit undersized and not an elite athlete, but there is plenty to like. Nunez took part in the FIBA World Cup in 2023 for Spain, and he does not shy away from playing the toughest competition.
The Minnesota Timberwolves desperately need point guard help. Mike Conley is 36 years old, and the franchise has no trusted backup. Juan Nunez should be ready for a role quickly but does not have tremendous upside. The Wolves want to contend and this could be the perfect fit.