Timberwolves Could Finally Solve Their Backcourt Issue in Budding Star

The 2026 NBA draft is upon us, and the Minnesota Timberwolves are looking at the event as a way to strengthen their lineup so they don’t fall out of the playoffs so fast next year.

The Timberwolves have a strong lineup, and it was frustrating to see them not go further in the playoffs this season. Adding new talent will help tighten their roster ahead of next season.

So, who is the Timberwolves getting linked to in mocks? In a mock draft out on Saturday, May 23, Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report names his projections for the upcoming draft and has the team going with Jack Kayil, a point guard out of ALBA Berlin.

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“Kayil committed to Gonzaga in October, but he has since opted to stick in this draft, creating ‘speculation around the NBA … that Kayil received a first-round promise,’ per Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor,” Buckley states. “Maybe Minnesota gave it.”

He adds: “The Wolves clearly need help in the backcourt, and Kayil offers both an NBA-ready build and the right blend of shooting potential and playmaking feel to fit on or off the ball.”

My Analysis: Jack Kayil and the Timberwolves

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In a draft class that’s heavy on college students and lighter on international players, Kayil stands out as one of the international guys who could really make noise in the draft. He’s a strong backcourt player, as Buckley pointed out, and that’s exactly what the Timberwolves need to improve their roster. He’s already seasoned enough to start in the NBA, so there wouldn’t be much of a learning curve.

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This story was originally published May 27, 2026 at 1:12 PM.