Minnesota Sports Forum

FNG wrote: ↑Sat Jan 17, 2026 12:18 pm

Q-is-here wrote: ↑Sat Jan 17, 2026 11:54 am

rapsuperstar31 wrote: ↑Sat Jan 17, 2026 11:48 am

He was a probably a bit lost out there, but I do think he did a good job not fouling Sengun in the 2nd half and staying with him. He also had a nice tap out hustle play that resulted in a missed open three but chance at second chance points. I don't think Joan needs big minutes, but I would consider playing 2-3 minutes at the end of the first quarter, and 2-3 minutes at the end of the 3rd quarter. Have both Rudy and one of Naz/Randle out during those 4-6 minutes per game.

Agreed. Both Clark and Joan rely on defense and hustle, thus the idea of needing more minutes to get into a rythym doesn't apply to them and short stints here and there (that can certainly be extended if playing really well) is easier to pull off versus guys like Dillingham and Shannon.

You guys are correct...he did look good on a couple possessions against Sengun. Yeah, I agree...that might be some value in cutting the minutes of our 3 bigs to give Joan some short stints.

In his short G-league stint, Joan looked better every game he played. I think we'll see the same up here in the big leagues. It won't be anything super dramatic, but he should become more impactful as he gets more real NBA games under his belt.

It's impossible not to be excited to see this guy develop. Even if he never really learns to shoot a jump shot or dribble other than in a crab position backing his guy down, he'll still be a valuable player because of his motor, size, good hands, quickness (for his size), and knack for getting his hands on the ball. Any team can use a big defender like that who can rim run, and it seems pretty clear he's on track to provide at least that. Also, he's still so young, you have to think he's going to get stronger at least, even if he doesn't grow another inch. That first summer league game was an eye-opener, and it's been good to see him get some real minutes here, where he can contribute in an area of need.