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

The Phoenix Suns will have plenty of options at the No. 4 pick, especially with three of the point guards in the draft going ahead of them. While a point guard like Kentucky’s De’Aaron Fox could be attractive, the Suns are badly in need of help on the wing and Kansas forward Josh Jackson is simply a better prospect.

Jackson shares similar flaws to Fox in that he struggles with his jump short. The 6-foot-8 wing’s problems are largely mechanical, however, and he seems to knock down 3-pointers when he gets into rhythm while struggling at the foul line in a more structured setting. Whether or not Jackson’s shot, which is heavily reliant on arm strength, can translate to a deeper NBA 3-point line remains an open question.

Otherwise, Jackson pretty much checks all of the other boxes. He can create a bit of offense in the halfcourt, especially against rotating defenses. He’s a tremendous passer both in transition and in halfcourt offensive sets. Plus, he has potential to be a very good defender — although he’s somewhat limited by his lack of elite length. Jackson’s athleticism, size and competitive nature combine into a mold that could be versatile and disruptive at the NBA level.

Learn more about Josh Jackson at The Step Back.