NBA Draft: Pro comparisons for the top 30 prospects in 2021

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 21: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys reacts against the Oregon State Beavers during the second half in the second round game of the 2021 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Hinkle Fieldhouse on March 21, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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Kai Jones (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

2021 NBA Draft: 11. Kai Jones compares to Chris Boucher

The good thing about the Toronto Raptors having a throwaway season last year, was that it gave them a chance to take a close look at Chris Boucher. After watching him pour in 13.6 points, grab 6.7 rebounds, block nearly two shots a game and connect on 38.3% of his 3-point attempts as a 6’11 big man, Boucher earned himself a big-time role going forward.

For teams looking to find that sort of an under the radar talent, they need to look no further than Kai Jones out of Texas. This past year, Jones didn’t exactly light the college basketball world on fire. He averaged 8.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and nailed 38.2% of his shots from 3-point land. But, he was mostly used in a reserved role. Jones started only four of 26 games and averaged 22.8 minutes. His per 40 minutes numbers jump off the page though. His averages skyrocket to 15.5 points and 8.5 rebounds to go along with 1.6 blocks per game.

Jones is a long and active defender, much like Boucher. Both have the ability to make a defense pay for leaving them unattended behind the arc. While neither man will stop big guys such as Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic from scoring on the inside, they have enough length and capabilities to irritate them.

There’s plenty to love about Jones and in no time, he’ll give a team loads of value for taking a chance on him.