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2016 NBA Rookie Ladder: D’Angelo Russell Best Rookie PG?

By Nathan Grubel

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Feb 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) drives to the basket as Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic (9) defends during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) drives to the basket as Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic (9) defends during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Jahlil Okafor, Philadelphia 76ers

I’d like to say more nice things about Jahlil Okafor and I’ve tried. He’s had multiple points this season in which he’s proven effective rebounding and blocking shots, but they’ve only been stretches of a few games. Ultimately all Okafor has really done is score at an elite level for a big man, something that earns him a top spot among his peers but doesn’t bode well for an All-Star career.

Before the draft I said his best comparison was Brook Lopez and to this point I’ve been proven right. A capable scorer who’s a below-average rebounder and defender for a big, Okafor doesn’t bring any versatility to the table.

The good news is he’s scored in many ways, including mid-range shots and a slightly improved free throw stroke. But he’s making improvements in the only area where he’s shown promise.

This is a professional league in which being able to do multiple things at once is part of having star status. Okafor hasn’t shown he’s worthy of an All-Star berth down the road so he has his work cut out for him this offseason in terms of getting in better shape and working on his defense.

He might not have the competitiveness in him to fight down low each night, but it’s too early to give up on him as an all-around effective center.

Next: The Unicorn