2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 21: Malik Monk to the Sixers
By Chris Stone
Josh Jackson
SF, Kansas
Kansas freshman Josh Jackson missed out on plenty of action during the Jayhawks’ Elite Eight matchup with Oregon. Jackson committed two early fouls that seemingly took him out of rhythm as he sat on the bench for most of the first half. However, once he had a chance to stay on the floor for the second half, he did great work defending Dillon Brooks and helped lead the Jayhawks’ attempted comeback.
Jackson’s defense on Brooks is one of the things that makes him such an attractive prospect. The 6-foot-7 wing has the potential to be a multi-positional defender at the next level. He competes on every possession, has great instincts for jumping into passing lanes and can protect the weak side of the rim. Jackson will likely need to add a bit of strength to battle NBA players, but in terms of skill, he’s doing well.
Offensively, Jackson has potential as a secondary creator. He has a decent handle and good court vision. He’s at his best getting to the basket where he can finish with a floater, a crafty layup or a slam. Jackson also shot it well from deep this season after getting more comfortable with his odd shooting motion. Poor free throw shooting suggests his numbers will lag a bit in the NBA, but developing his jumper would open up his game significantly.