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 /

Easy To Avoid

The aggravating parts of this issue are that these mistakes are very easily avoided, and that Okafor occasionally does display tremendous ability to use guard pressure to his advantage. Out of the low post here, Okafor recognizes DeMar DeRozan attempting to swipe at him, and quickly finds Gerald Henderson for the open three.

When Okafor isn’t being blitzed by guards, the results are not much prettier. He has a propensity for comically lazy entry passes that create abundant live-ball turnovers.

Okafor’s issues result from execution rather than recognition. In each of these cases, Okafor accurately reads the situation and notices a mismatch or an advantageous position. He is simply too lackadaisical in his delivery.

While the stats and film are worrisome, it’s all to common with young players. Jahlil Okafor is just 20, and entering just his second NBA season. We can find comfort knowing this will resolve itself and he develops and matures. Of course, four words from Brett Brown: “Keep the ball high!” would accelerate that process.

Knowing that the Sixers are unlikely to stop running the Elbow Series, Okafor’s improvement in this area is paramount.