Almost universally, Jackson would be placed higher than this as a consensus. However, with a few noticeable flaws and a highly talented crop, I’m cautioning my approach to Jackson as a prospect — especially in regards to the Sixers. With that said, he’s a thrilling athletic prospect with elite two-way upside in the mold of a more skilled Andrew Wiggins.
Offensively, Jackson’s lack of a jumper is his largest concern. He hasn’t polished off his 3-point shot yet, and doesn’t have the most reliable midrange game to fall back on either. He utilizes his size well in terms of gaining position on the floor, it’s simply a matter of capitalizing on the ensuing opportunities as a result.
Despite those concerns, however, Jackson still projects as a really, really good NBA player. He can play above the rim with ease, and is among the more prolific slashers you’ll find at the college level. Jackson also handles the ball well for his size. He boasts a passing touch that has been largely overlooked in some circles, and could carry upside as a playmaker as a result.
Jackson is also another elite defensive prospect on the wing, with great lateral mobility and excellent range of motion.
Where he fits with the Philadelphia 76ers
Jackson, like Anunoby, would bring a needed boost of wing depth to the rotation. He doesn’t necessarily jive with Simmons all that well given his lack of a perimeter jumper — 25 percent from 3 — but is too talented to look past regardless.
As a passer, Jackson could help take some of the hefty playmaking role off of Simmons early on. He’ll by no means run the offense, but can certainly take the ball up the floor and run a handful of plays on occasion.
Jackson’s defensive upside would be his most beneficial aspect from day one. Outside of Covington, the team lacks consistency on that side of the ball. Jackson’s ability to get into passing lanes and turn defense into up-tempo opportunities in transition is something a youthful Sixers team could feast on.
Jackson, despite a lack of fit, is too talented to not find a role on both ends for Philadelphia. Even in such a loaded guard class, he’s worth looking into.
Expert’s Opinion — Jonathan Givony, DraftExpress
"Super versatile wing player. Plays every position on the floor depending on which level he’s operating at. Does a little bit of everything. Still raw and unpolished, but shows great flashes of talent in many different areas. Unselfish player who is extremely competitive defensively. Still remains to be seen just how high his ceiling is offensively, but at the very least will be a super versatile all-around player."
Big Board Rankings:
- Big Board 3.0 — 5
- Jeremy Woo — 3
- DraftExpress — 3
- Sam Vecenie — 3