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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Jaden Springer. Mandatory Credit: Catalina Fragoso-USA TODAY Sports /

2021 NBA Draft:: 6. Jaden Springer compares to Victor Oladipo

Offense is what gets customers through the door and has arenas filled with excitement. But it’s defense that ultimately wins championships. Thankfully, Jaden Springer can do both.

Ball handlers had a hard time dribbling the rock when Springer and the University of Tennessee came into town. While teams may have tried to exploit his 6’4 frame, they found it virtually impossible due to his upper body strength. He’s very much in the mold of Victor Oladipo. Before he became best friends with every team’s medical staff, Oladipo was a strong defender. He spent most of his career as a second or third option, while still giving his ball club a strong defender to slow the opposition down. Eventually, Oladipo became a number one option. A good one too but nagging injuries have left his career in doubt.

It’s much of the same for Springer. Well, minus the injuries. Springer attacks the basket no matter who’s guarding the rim. He’s also a terrific 3-point shooter. The one and done ball player knocked in 43.5% from distance in his lone collegiate year but considering that he only attempted 1.8 a game, question marks still remain around that part of his game.

As long as Springer doesn’t fall down the perpetual hole of getting complacent and there’s no reason to believe he will, he’ll be Victor Oladipo 2.0.