The 50 most interesting players in European hoops: Nos. 30-21
23. Charles Jenkins, PG, Khimki Moscow
The premier defensive guard in Euroleague. Jenkins is a player you have to pay attention to on the defensive end, as he has some of the quickest hands and the most bothersome tactics on the continent. He struggled as an NBA player with the 76ers and Warriors, but he’s developed a bit of a cult following in Europe as the head of what was a monstrous defense for Red Star last season.
At Khimki Moscow, offense is king behind Alexey Shved, but they’ll need defensive help. Honeycutt provides it in the front court, and Jenkins will be charged with bailing Shved out in the backcourt. He won’t be as overextended as he was last season, which should help him maintain consistent intensity on defense — not that he needed it, but it’s terrifying to give him that luxury. Guards never win Defensive Player of the Year in Euroleague, but Jenkins should be in the conversation this year. He’s that good.