Three Things Jahlil Okafor Can Improve his Game Quickly

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Dec 2, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) drives against Orlando Magic center Bismack Biyombo (11) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Orlando Magic won 105-88. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

While it is unreasonable to expect Jahlil Okafor to suddenly become a stalwart defender, develop a mid-range jump shot, or become a 90 percent free throw shooter, these three changes are subtle tendencies that can be easily fixed with proper coaching.

Being Decisive at the Elbow

In large part due to their use of Mike D’Antoni’s Elbow Series, the league leading team in elbow touches are the Philadelphia 76ers at 25 per game. Out of those 25, Okafor averages 7.9 elbow touches.This ranks him at the highest among the Philadelphia 76ers and fourth most league-wide.

Of the 47 players receiving three or more elbow touches per game, Okafor ranks 43rd in assist percentage and has the 19th highest turnover percentage. And therein lies the rub.

In analyzing the film, Okafor’s issues result primarily from indecision. He idles when there is no obvious first option. It’s that hesitation which allows for guards to apply overly effective pressure or simply force Jahlil to make a rushed pass.

(Stats courtesy of nba.com)

While quick guards like Mike Conley are a pest for any big man, Okafor struggles mightily to sniff out the pressure in these situations.

There are times when Okafor does recognize the guard pressure coming.

In these cases, however, he often nervously tries to get rid of the ball as opposed to simply keeping it high and away from the guard’s reach.

In this video example, he is so worried about J.R. Smith picking his pocket that he lowers his shoulder into him. That draws the flag for an unnecessary offensive foul as opposed to relying on sound positioning.

Basketball is all about instincts, but Okafor seems to question his here.