The Sixer Sense
Fansided

2018 NBA Mock Draft 7.0

By Christopher Kline

BELGRADE, SERBIA - MAY 20: Luka Doncic, #7 of Real Madrid poses with Chamipons Trophy and MVP of the final Trophy 2018 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague F4 Champion Photo Session with Trophy at Stark Arena on May 20, 2018 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Rodolfo Molina/EB via Getty Images)
BELGRADE, SERBIA - MAY 20: Luka Doncic, #7 of Real Madrid poses with Chamipons Trophy and MVP of the final Trophy 2018 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague F4 Champion Photo Session with Trophy at Stark Arena on May 20, 2018 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Rodolfo Molina/EB via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Scott W. Grau/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
(Photo by Scott W. Grau/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Michigan State. Jaren Jackson Jr. . 3. player. 125. . C

Jackson measured well at the combine and impressed scouts all season with his production on both sides of the ball. Tom Izzo limited his role at Michigan State, but long, mobile centers who can space the floor and protect the rim are inherently valuable.

His mechanics are a bit funky, but Jackson shot 39.6 percent from deep. His ability to run the pick-and-pop, as well as score around the rim, should allow the Hawks to center their offense around him. He’s a nice compliment to John Collins in the frontcourt, to boot.

As arguably the best individual defender in this draft, Jackson’s shot blocking will be a welcomed addition to an Atlanta team that’s still finding its identity in the midst of a rebuild. Lloyd Pierce is a defensive-minded coach who thrives with player development — it’s hard to imagine a better fit.