Atlanta Hawks: 5 options for pick No. 3 in 2018 NBA Draft
By Ty Delbridge
1. Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Height: 6’11″
- Weight; 214 lbs
- Age: 18
- Position: PF/C
Jaren Jackson Jr. is one of the youngest players entering the NBA Draft this season and shot up draft boards after one season at Michigan State University. Jackson is talked about as one of four players who could go No. 1 this year. He is impactful on both ends of the floor, is a good scorer, has a long wingspan, displays maturity and possesses a high basketball IQ.
This past season, Jackson averaged 10.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.0 blocks and 1.1 assists in 21.8 minutes per game while shooting 51.3 percent from the field and 39.6 percent from the 3-point line.
Jackson seems like a perfect fit next to John Collins. He can space the floor on offense, and play defense on the perimeter while Collins stays down low. Jackson’s shot-blocking at the 5 would be a great way to cover for Collin’s defensive flaws at the 4. The Ringer labeled him as “One of the safest bets. Jackson projects as a reliable two-way big man.”
Duke big man Marvin Bagley III is talked about as a top pick, but he doesn’t seem like an excellent fit for Hawks to pair with Collins. The Hawks may get the perfect fit for their team at No. 3 with Jackson, and he may have been the guy they took at No. 1 as well.
Next: 2018 NBA Mock Draft - Doncic still No. 1 in post-lottery edition
The Ringer compared him to Myles Turner and a billionaire’s Amile Jefferson. Jackson is going to be a glue guy for whatever team he plays for and will probably play 10-plus years in the league. The Hawks are going to be getting a stud regardless, but Jackson may be the best fit once Doncic and Ayton are most likely off the board.