Minnesota Timberwolves rookie Zach LaVine is known for winning the 2015 Slam Dunk Contest and he is ending his rookie season as the guy that can actually do more than dunk. LaVine has averaged 19.3 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.3 assists in his last 10 games as a starter. LaVine is currently averaging 9.8 points, 3.4 assists and 2.7 rebounds in his rookie season. LaVine is starting in place of injured point guard Ricky Rubio and Minnesota is currently on a 10-game losing streak. The future is looking bright in Minnesota since LaVine stepped in the starting lineup. Once training camp starts next season, Rubio could face some competition from LaVine for the starting point guard position. In the Wolves last game on April 11, LaVine scored a career-high 37 points, career-high 9 rebounds and 4 assists in a 110-101 loss to the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors have the best record in the NBA, LaVine made 12 out of 21 shots, and 6 out of 10 from downtown. LaVine was impressive in the loss, scored 20 points in the fourth quarter and held his own against Warriors All-Star point guard Stephen Curry. On the April 8, 116-91 loss to the Portland Trailblazers, LaVine had 18 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds. In a 116-111 loss to the Sacramento Kings on April 7, LaVine had 21 points, 11 assists and 5 rebounds. Minnesota rookie Andrew Wiggins will probably win the NBA Rookie of the Year award. If Rubio can come back healthy and LaVine improves over the summer, the Wolves have a good backcourt. The Wolves have awhile before they can compete to make the playoffs. If they draft well, Wiggins and LaVine continue to improve and get a solid bench, they are headed in the right direction. LaVine can definitely dunk, now the NBA knows he can shoot, score and has an all-around game. Photo credit: Twincities.com
