Minneapolis, Minn. (AP) – Derrick Williams entered his rookie season with the Minnesota Timberwolves as one of the favorites for the NBA’s rookie of the year.
Scouts and executives saw a polished offensive player who would flourish in Rick Adelman’s system and translate quickly to the NBA. After a grueling first season in which he showed promise with several huge games, he hit the rookie wall hard in April. Williams is preparing for a crucial summer of work to ensure major improvement next year.
Williams averaged 8.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game.
The No. 2 overall pick says he wants to follow in All-Star Kevin Love’s footsteps. Love has gained a reputation for exhaustive summer workouts that are credited with his significant improvement in his first four years in the league.