Grizzlies select Walker Kessler with No. 22 pick, reportedly trade him to T-Wolves
The Memphis Grizzlies have selected Auburn big man Walker Kessler with the 22nd pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Memphis is reportedly sending Kessler to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a deal involving Jake LaRavia.
After a limited freshman season at North Carolina where he averaged just 8.8 minutes, Kessler transferred to the Tigers ahead of 2021-22 and thrived in a much larger role under Bruce Pearl. The 7-footer immediately became the Tigers' top center, starting all 34 of their games and tallying 11.4 points, a team-best 8.1 rebounds, and a resounding 4.6 blocks as a sophomore.
Kessler was instrumental for Auburn defensively, as evidenced by his swat count. The 20-year-old's expert paint protection was a key factor in the Tigers' regular-season finish atop the SEC, as well as the program's three-week reign as the nation's top-ranked team. His contributions earned him the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award, first-team All-SEC honors, and a spot on the SEC All-Defense squad.
The big man initially projects to slot in as an interior-focused big who can hold his own against opposing inside threats at the NBA level. However, how his professional career pans out will likely depend on his offensive development.
Bio
Position: Center
School: Auburn
College experience: Sophomore
Height: 7-foot-1
Weight: 256 lbs
Wingspan: 7-foot-4
Max Vertical: N/A
Strengths
- Incredible rim-protector - virtually tied with Jamarion Sharp for the most blocks per game in the country (4.56 to 4.62)
- Combines above-average mobility for his frame with great timing and instincts to recover when beaten
- Solid rolling big and lob target with a soft touch near the rim
Weaknesses
- Upside is primarily his defense - didn't shy away from occasional outside shots but still not a consistent floor-stretcher
- Can be prone to foul trouble while hunting for blocks
- Career 57.7% free-throw shooter