This is Part One in a series breaking down ceilings and NBA comparisons for the Wolves young roster. This piece focuses on second-year big man Adreian Payne.
Adreian Payne was acquired by the Timberwolves after being drafted in the first round of the 2014 NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks. While in Atlanta, Payne played in just three NBA games and was sent on assignment to the D-League on multiple occasions.
Once he arrived in Minnesota, Payne’s role changed immensely. As the Timberwolves were plagued by injury, opportunity was there for Payne, who started 22 of 29 games.