2014 NBA Mock Draft: An in-depth look at both rounds
By Joe Nardone
53. Minnesota Timberwolves – Alessandro Gentile, SG/SF, Italy
H: 6′ 6″ W: 200 lbs DOB: 11/12/1992
2013-14 Euroleague, Emporio Armani Milano (63 GP) 11.7 PPG 3.3 RPG 2.7 APG .355 3PT%
Alessandro Gentile’s about as seasoned as a 21 year old international player/NBA prospect gets, which makes him a perfect fit for a Minnesota team poised to blow it up and start from scratch.
Think Greivis Vasquez but less of a distributor, Gentile plays with smarts and savvy despite questionable shot selection and limited athleticism. Also like Vasquez, what he lacks in genetics he makes up for with confidence, which exudes in his game and the way his teammates trust him. As they should, seeing how the 6-foot-6 wing can score in a multitude of ways.
Gentile has quick hands, can create his own offense and is just as good off the ball, and is capable of knocking down threes at a respectable rate. He’d be ready to contribute on offense immediately if he’s drafted this year, but fear that he might not come over to the NBA for another couple of years could lead to him being passed up on. — Jared