NBA Draft: Minnesota Timberwolves Select Joan Beringer at No. 17

The Minnesota Timberwolves have made an intriguing pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, choosing 18-year-old French center Joan Beringer with the 17th overall selection. Known for his high energy and versatility, Beringer stands out as a promising defensive talent.

Standing 6’10” with a 7’5″ wingspan, Beringer is an aggressive rim protector who excels at shot blocking and defending multiple positions. His athleticism and switchability on defense have impressed scouts, contributing to his rapid rise up draft boards. Although he has a lot to develop offensively, his ability to catch the ball and finish around the basket is a strong suit, and he shows good coordination and soft hands for his age.

Defensively, Beringer is highly versatile, capable of switching onto different opponents effectively. His recent improvements include better discipline on foul management and increased free throw percentage, signaling his dedication to growth. Despite his rawness, his ceiling remains high, especially given his youthful energy and upside.

This selection raises questions about the Timberwolves’ future roster plans. With veteran big men like Rudy Gobert, who is in his early 30s, and Julius Randle’s uncertain player option, the team appears to be planning for a potential transition in their frontcourt. Beringer could eventually fill a role similar to Gobert’s, especially if Minnesota moves on from their current center.

Analysts see Beringer as perhaps the best defensive big in this draft class, given his rim protection and aggressive style of play. His development will be exciting to watch, as he has the tools to become a key component for the Timberwolves’ future.