2017 NBA Mock Draft: The 76ers lock up a point guard

The Milwaukee Bucks have an affinity for long players who can defend. In their centers, they look for guys who can both protect the rim and slide on the perimeter. It’s a lot of what attracted them to likely long-term starter Thon Maker and could edge them towards someone like Texas’ Jarrett Allen in the 2017 draft. While Maker is positioned to be the No. 1 option at the position for the future, finding suitable depth will be key. Allen could fill that role.

At 6-foot-10 with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, Allen has the type of length that Milwaukee looks for in its players. In terms of his defense, he was solid, but unspectacular at the rim this season, blocking 1.9 shots per 40 minutes. However, he frequently played as the second big man and operated away from the basket, which likely limited his statistical effect. As the lone big in a lineup, Allen could more comfortably be tasked with protecting the rim. Allen has also shown some ability to slide on the perimeter with guards, opening up more options for how to defend pick-and-rolls.

On offense, Allen’s game is still finding its niche. Right now, he’s best suited to be a dive man in the pick-and-roll, but he has a decent looking jump shot that could expanding out the 3-point line in time.

Learn more about Jarrett Allen at The Step Back.