There is no question that the NBA is evolving, and so are the roles of big men. No longer just paint protectors or screen-setters, modern centers are now expected to pass, space the floor, and make plays like guards. Danny Wolf, a 7-footer from Michigan, fits this new prototype perfectly. The Brooklyn Nets should seriously consider drafting him with their first-round, 19th pick in 2025.
Wolf isn’t just a big body
He’s a playmaker with vision and creativity. Comfortable initiating offense, he has thrived playing alongside another traditional big man. At Michigan, Wolf paired with Vladislav Goldin in a two-big lineup that worked better than most expected. Goldin anchored the paint with rim-running and physicality, while Wolf operated as a secondary playmaker, stretching the floor, delivering timely passes, and even running the break. Their styles complemented rather than conflicted.
This experience is crucial for the Nets. Nic Claxton is Brooklyn’s current defensive anchor. He is viewed as a mobile, athletic presence who protects the rim and alters shots. At first glance, drafting another big like Wolf might seem redundant. But Claxton and Wolf bring different skill sets that could mesh well on the court. Claxton can focus on defense and paint protection, while Wolf would stretch the floor, create offense, and add another dimension to the lineup.
Offensively, Wolf is intriguing.
He averages nearly 10 rebounds per game and can space the floor extremely well. His spot-up shooting is efficient, converting nearly 50% of attempts. His ball-handling and quick decision-making are rare for a player his size, making him a versatile offensive option, whether as a starter or a key contributor off the bench.
There are areas for improvement.
Wolf’s turnovers are higher than ideal, and his shooting percentages from beyond the arc and the free-throw line leave room for growth. Defensively, he isn’t an elite rim protector due to limited explosiveness and lateral quickness, which could hinder his ability to guard in space or switch onto smaller, quicker players. Still, his strong rebounding, solid positioning, and high defensive IQ allow him to be effective in the right system.
At 21 years old, Wolf is mature enough to contribute early but still has room to develop. Brooklyn needs versatile players who can evolve and complement their stars. Drafting Wolf is a bet on potential and fit rather than immediate perfection, sometimes exactly what a team needs at No. 19.
Remember, the Nets aren’t just drafting another big. They’re investing in a unique skill set and a proven ability to coexist alongside a traditional center. Wolf is the type of player the Nets need as they continue to redefine their identity.