Hardwood Houdini Draft Profiles
Josh Jackson: Kansas, SF/SG
Height: 6’8″
Weight: 207 pounds
Age:19
Click the name for up to date stats: Josh Jackson
Strength’s
Athleticism:
Jackson has outstanding athleticism, which has been seen on full display throughout his freshman campaign at Kansas. On the fast break, it is better to get out of the way, unless you want to end up on a poster. Athleticism is always brought up when talking about draft prospects, and Jackson definitely has that. His athleticism is seen on both the offensive end when getting to the basket, and on the defensive end when he is often asked to cover the opposing team’s best perimeter player.
Motor:
Jackson has an extremely impressive work ethic and motor. He fights for loose balls, he is physical, and his passion for the game is outmatched. Oklahoma State head coach Brad Underwood had very high praise for Jackson regarding his motor. “Josh’s stuff is legendary,” Underwood said. “I mean, he stood out in the AAU circuit — and I’m probably ashamed because of our culture today — he stood out because he played hard. I mean, he’s talented, but he plays hard. He’s motored up” (via the Topeka Capital-Journal).
Versatility/Impact:
Jackson impacts the game in such a variety of ways. His defensive potential is outstanding, as he moves his feet well and switches well on pick and roles. He will be a tremendous defender in the NBA. He is an underrated rebounder (seven double doubles on the season including three in his last four games) and passer. He can make plays for his teammates aside from making plays for himself. Offensively, he can really get to the basket, and his perimeter jump shot has shown improvement. People sometimes compare him to former Kansas star Andrew Wiggins, but Jackson can impact the game in more ways than Wiggins.
Feb 6, 2017; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas Jayhawks gaurd Josh Jackson (11) steals the ball away from Kansas State Wildcats guard Kamau Stokes (3) during first-half action at Fred Bramlage Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports
Weaknesses:
Jump Shot/Shooting:
Although maybe not as ugly as Lonzo Ball’s jump shot, Jackson’s isn’t much prettier. In his first 10 games of the season, he shot 5-21 from 3-point range. The good news is that he has hit at least one 3-pointer in his last six games, going 13-24 from 3-point range in that span. So, his outside shooting is improving. When he gets to the NBA, his perimeter shot needs to be more consistent, and it doesn’t help that his mechanics aren’t great. Which then leads to his horrendous foul shooting. He is shooting 54.3% from the free throw line. Normally you see this kind of percentage from bigs in the NBA like DeAndre Jordan or Andre Drummond. His free throw shooting is something that absolutely needs to improve when he gets to the next level.
Still Relatively Raw:
Much like Wiggins was at Kansas, Jackson is still relatively raw. He doesn’t have the polished offensive game that a player like Jayson Tatum has. When he is drafted, it will take a few years for his game to be groomed on the offensive end.
Overall:
Jackson has arguably the most potential out of all the prospects due to his crazy athleticism and his ability to be an impact player in virtually all facets of the game. He needs to improve his shooting on the line and also needs to be more consistent with his perimeter jump shot. His shooting is where there is the most room for improvement. Many believe Jackson is destined for stardom. I see Jackson being a top three pick in the draft.
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