2017 NBA Mock Draft: Josh Jackson to the Lakers

110. The Miami Heat locked up center Hassan Whiteside to a long-term deal during the offseason, but adding additional frontcourt talent is almost never a problem — unless you’re the Kings. Miami has an opportunity here to pick up a prospect in Texas’ Jarrett Allen who has the potential to fill out the necessary roles of the modern NBA center. <p>Allen’s most intriguing potential is on the defensive end where his size (6-foot-11 and 7-foot-5.5 wingspan) could make him an imposing presence as a rim protector. The 18-year old will feature this season in Shaka Smart’s defensive schemes as a shot blocker, holding down the fort in the paint. Allen is also impressive because he has shown the ability to switch and guard along the perimeter. He moves his feet well for a player of his stature and his length can help close down driving lanes. Those two skills given Allen the potential to be a high-level defensive center at the next level.</p> <p>Offensively, Allen isn’t a particularly skilled scorer in the vein of someone like Jahlil Okafor, but he does offer upside as a pick-and-roll dive man who can finish at the rim. Over time, he may also be able to develop into a sufficient pick-and-pop scoring threat with the ability to knock down jumpers. That should be enough offense to supplement his potentially elite defensive skills.</p>. C. Texas. Jarrett Allen. 10. player