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2018 NBA Mock Draft: What’s in store for the second round?

By Brendon Kleen

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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COLLEGE PARK, MD – DECEMBER 07: Justin Jackson #21 of the Maryland Terrapins handles the ball against the Ohio Bobcats at Xfinity Center on December 7, 2017 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images)
COLLEGE PARK, MD – DECEMBER 07: Justin Jackson #21 of the Maryland Terrapins handles the ball against the Ohio Bobcats at Xfinity Center on December 7, 2017 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images) /

. G/F. Maryland. Justin Jackson. 51. player. 69

Jackson had first-round buzz entering his sophomore season, but a labrum tear in his right shoulder early in conference play stole most of his season. Still, draft analysts like The Ringer’s Jonathan Tjarks have him as high as No. 24. Juggling the injury and his inconsistent performance at Maryland might lead NBA teams to slide him down their board, allowing New Orleans to swoop in and take a chance with their only pick in this year’s draft.

As a freshman, Jackson shot 44 percent from distance, created steals and blocks consistently, and flashed tantalizing positional versatility on defense. The 3-and-D package was apparent right away, and his physical tools only complement that potential. Jackson stands 6-7 with a 7-3 wingspan, hanging around the special Brandon Ingram/Robert Covington class of physically daunting wing defenders. You could imagine him defending at least four positions.

Though not a traditional bucket-getter, Jackson scores with a delicate shooting touch and energetic off-ball play. The Maryland defense was nearly 3 points better per 100 possessions with Jackson on the court. His usage was on track to be quite a bit higher this year had he avoided injury, up to 24.1 percent from 20.2 last season.

The Pelicans desperately need wing talent, especially as cheap as the No. 50 pick will come. If Jackson gets healthy and reaches his potential, New Orleans would be ecstatic.