Phoenix Suns: Breathing life back into The Timeline

Josh Jackson

Jackson also had one of the most well-rounded games of his career, putting up 20 points, seven rebounds, five assists, four blocks and one steal on his 21st birthday. He shot 10-of-19 from the floor, got out in transition and took advantage of Payton’s court vision with smart cuts to the rim.

"“I feel like that’s when I’m at my best is when we’re able to run in transition,” Jackson said. “He did a really good job of finding me when I was just running. I could be standing right next to a guy when I’m running, but I think I’m faster than most of the guys guarding me most of the time, so I can outrun them and he understood that today.”"

Jackson is second among all NBA rookies in 20-point games since the calendar flipped to 2018, recording seven in the new year. This trails only Donovan Mitchell, who has 10.

Over his last 10 games, Jackson has cranked it up a notch, averaging 17.3 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game on 43.7 percent shooting … and that 10-game sample size includes an 0-for-13 shooting night.

His attacks on the rim can still be as reckless as ever, but he’s learning how to elude rim protectors in the paint and finish tough floaters over defenders. Just look at this gorgeous Euro-step that literally froze everyone on the court:

"“I think just the minutes, and he’s starting to figure out where he can score and when to back cut and I think that’ll improve as he plays with a guy that he becomes more familiar with,” Triano said of the reason behind his recent progress."

Jackson has scored in double-digits in seven straight games, averaging 19.0 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game on 47 percent shooting over that stretch. His decision-making and 3-point shooting still need work, but it’s encouraging he looks like a top-five pick after such a brutal start to the season.

Oh, and a reminder for those who were ready to give up on him after two months: Josh Jackson just turned 21.