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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Jalen Green (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

2021 NBA Draft: 3. Jalen Green compares to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Jalen Green made several headlines when he decided against attending a big-time college program. Instead, the former five-star high school basketball recruit entered the G League. There was criticism as to whether or not Green would have the sort of impact and attention that his level of talent deserves. After spending only one year in the pros, albeit on the G League level, he solidified himself as a top five pick.

Green is a walking bucket. He averaged 17.9 points on an efficient 46.1% from the field. His 3-point percentage wasn’t too shabby either, nailing 36.5% from distance. Green is silky smooth and is constantly in attack mode, much like Oklahoma City Thunder lead guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Both players are smaller two guards, standing at practically the same height, 6’6 for Gilgeous-Alexander and 6’5 for Green. They’re both also listed at 180 pounds. Still, despite their smaller stature, they have no problem filling up the scoreboard.

With Gilgeous-Alexander dishing out less than four assists a game and Green checking in under three, they aren’t facilitators. A lead, pass-first point guard would be an ideal pairing for either man. If a team is looking for someone to just get buckets, Green is their guy.