Milwaukee Bucks: 3 reasons Jabari Parker will be missed

2. Made for the modern game

Jabari Parker’s body type is very en vogue. Allow me to revive an old Chad Ford tweet to enlighten those who may have forgotten about Parker’s measurements.

One of the most underrated aspects of Parker’s game is his mobility and lateral quickness. Scouts salivated over how Parker retained his agility, despite boasting a powerful, albeit thick frame. Theoretically, Parker measures up as a combo forward who should be able to play both forward positions, as well as centers if need be.

On the defensive end, Parker leaves a lot to be desired. Still, he has the tools to succeed. He can defend bigger frontcourt players and has the foot speed to hang with wings. Consider Game 4 from last year’s postseason matchup with the Boston Celtics. Parker made a huge defensive impact that contributed to a win, posting three blocks and two steals.

Offensively, Parker plays a combo forward position that scouts salivate over. If you need reassurance of this fact, go watch some Kevin Knox summer league highlights. Parker has the ability to blow by heavier 4 and post up smaller 3s. The Carmelo Anthony and Paul Pierce comparisons existed for a reason.

The skill of simply getting a bucket when the game in on the line has made a renaissance in today’s league. We call them “closers.” Parker’s mismatch physique and skill-set suggest he could be that guy. Injuries prevented this from coming to fruition, but the potential still exists.