HH Draft Profile: Justin Jackson
By Alex Eddy
Hardwood Houdini Draft Profiles
Justin Jackson: North Carolina, SF
Height: 6’8″
Weight: 210 pounds
Age: 21
Click on the name for up to date stats: Justin Jackson
Strengths
Improvement:
Jackson came back to North Carolina for his junior year, and it was absolutely the right decision. The most important aspect of his game that he needed to improve was his 3-point shooting. He is now a 39.5% 3-point shooter, after only shooting 29.2% from 3 last year. He has already made more 3-pointers this year than his freshman and sophomore years combined. He has also increased his points per game by more than six points, while also improving his free throw shooting and rebounding. Jackson also drives to the basket more this year and has really boosted his overall confidence. Jackson has really improved his offensive game as a whole.
Defensive Potential:
At 6’8”, Jackson has great size and length to be able to guard multiple positions on the floor. He is extremely quick and agile for his size. His defensive potential combined with his shooting makes him a very good 3&D candidate at the next level. If he adds muscle to his slim frame, Jackson could become an elite defender in the NBA with his length and athletic ability.
Weaknesses
Frame:
Jackson is extremely skinny for a small forward. He needs to add a lot of muscle in order to be able to contend with more physical small forwards in the NBA. Getting stronger will definitely elevate his game on both ends of the floor. If he can’t keep up with the physical nature of the NBA game, Jackson won’t be able to get minutes that help him develop the rest of his skills.
Efficiency/Shot Selection:
Jackson takes some shots that make you scratch your head and wonder why in the world did he just take that. Despite his highly noticed improvement from a season ago, his overall field goal percentage this season is actually the lowest it has ever been. He takes some extremely questionable shots and can sometimes play out of control. This area definitely needs improvement.
Overview
Jackson is one of the most improved players in the country. He has good size for the small forward position, but does need to add more muscle and strength. He can become a legitimate 3&D guy in the NBA. If he limits the amount of poor shots that he takes, he will become more and more efficient. I see Jackson being a late first round to early second round draft pick in this year’s draft.