Barring a massive turnaround, the Timberwolves are (again) bound for the lottery — where the franchise figures to add to a roster full of potential.

If you're curious what kind of young player the Wolves might add to their group, there is this: ESPN's Chad Ford recently released the latest version of his mock draft. Yes, the NBA draft is June 22 — the middle of 2017 — whereas it is now Jan. 3, close to the beginning of 2017. A lot can change in half a year.

Still, an early look is an early look. Ford and ESPN project the Wolves to have the No. 8 pick based on a projected 32-50 finish.

With that pick, Ford guesses the Wolves will land Duke freshman forward Harry Giles — a mega-talented 18-year-old prospect who has been limited by knee injuries.

Ford cautions that, "If Giles comes on late, he won't be available this low," but adds that "if he's here, the Wolves just added to their embarrassment of young riches."

Read Michael Rand's blog at startribune.com/randball. michael.rand@startribune.com.