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Measurables: 6’8, 201LBs
Statistics: 18.3 PPG, 4.7 RBG, 2.8 APG, 37.0 3P%
Strengths:
Justin Jackson may be one of the better overall scorers in this draft class and with the lack of wing depth, he will be a hot commodity in the middle of the first round. The former ACC Player of the Year really developed his three-point shot during his Junior season at North Carolina, setting the single season record for most threes made in a season. Jackson knocked down 37% of his three point attempts. Jackson is very skilled in a motion offense showing a solid ability to make the right cuts and come off screens to hit triples. He has one of the best floaters in the draft using his 6’8 frame and his 6’11 wingspan to outstretch the ball over defenders. Jackson also became a solid wing defender capable of defending multiple positions. His lateral quickness and size is able to disrupt shooters as he is a long body to shoot over.
Weaknesses:
Jackson needs to improve his rebounding numbers, although part of it may be due to being on a North Carolina team that’s overall strength was rebounding the basketball. Jackson only averaged 4.7 rebounds per game in 32 minutes of action. Jackson would also like to improve his free throw percentage. Jackson shot an okay 74.8% from the line. Not horrible but something that can easily be improved upon for him to become a better player.
Best Fit:
The Miami Heat may be the best option for Jackson to thrive as a rookie. The Heat have an immediate need at small forward as Justise WInslow is coming off a major injury and the Heat started Wayne Ellington and Luke Babbitt for the majority of the year. The Heat like to play small and create mismatches. This strategy paid off for head coach Erik Spoelstra as the Heat made a late season charge after a disastrous start. Jackson at 6’8 can start from day one at small forward and will have the capability to defend multiple positions.
Player Comparison:
Jackon may project to be a combination of Nicolas Batum and Trevor Ariza. Jackson significantly improved his three-point shot and his lateral quickness allows him to defend smaller guards. Jackson has also improved his playmaking skills as a distributor. He has a ways to go to become Batum like in that department but his skill set is similar to these two players.