2018 NBA Mock Draft: What do playoff teams need?

There’s a certain curse associated with player archetypes like the one Tony Allen embodies — comparing a player to Tony Allen is almost an insult, as if his offense is inherently limiting and the value he provides can only come when that player consumes himself with defense and uses his motor as an advantage. It’s tough to sort through wings with questionable jumpers and say one could ever have the impact Allen had in his prime for Memphis and Boston.

But just as the Celtics found a diamond in the rough with Allen in 2005 with the 25th pick, they could see Alkins become a similar player. It starts with that motor — you hear often about how a player who constantly moves their feet will be the most impactful in the NBA. It’s an indication of involvement, relentless pursuit of the ball and a desire, especially on defense, to finish the play. Alkins is someone for whom that mindset comes to life. He’s never still.

A team that can turn Semi Ojeleye, Jae Crowder and Allen himself into above-average contributors should look long and hard at Alkins. Their egalitarian, guard-focused offensive system can mask Alkins’ limitations, while their tendency on defense to rely on man-to-man enforcers will benefit from Alkins’ presence.