Hansen Yang’s Timberwolves Workout: A Data-Driven Breakdown

When the Minnesota Timberwolves announced their pre-draft workouts this week, one name stood out to me: Hansen Yang, the 7’1” center from China. As someone who spends more time with Synergy Sports tracking data than sunlight, I couldn’t resist crunching the numbers on this intriguing prospect. Here’s what the analytics say about his NBA potential.

The Context: Why Minnesota?

The Timberwolves aren’t exactly starving for big men (Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns ring a bell?), but Yang’s skill set—particularly his court vision and soft touch around the rim—fits the modern NBA’s trend of playmaking centers. His workout group included Duke’s Sion James and Alabama’s Cliff Omoruyi, but Yang’s international experience gives him a unique edge in adaptability.

The Stats That Pop

• Passing Prowess: Per 36 minutes in China’s CBA, Yang averaged 4.2 assists—a rarity for a player his size. For context, Nikola Jokić averaged 3.6 assists in his final pre-NBA season.
• Efficiency Metrics: His 62% true shooting percentage suggests he knows how to pick his spots, though his free-throw rate (just 3.1 attempts per game) raises questions about aggression.
• Defensive Ceiling: At 7’1” with a 7’4” wingspan, his block rate (2.1 per game) translates well, but lateral quickness against NBA guards is the glaring unknown.

The Big Question

Can Yang crack a Wolves roster already logjammed with bigs? Probably not immediately. But as a stash-and-develop pick (think Usman Garuba), his combination of size and skill makes him a fascinating long-term project. Plus, Minnesota’s affinity for international players (see: Luka Šamanić) works in his favor.

Final Thought: If Yang lands a two-way contract, don’t be surprised if he becomes Iowa Wolves fans’ favorite G League novelty by December.