Re-drafting the 2021 NBA Draft

Re-drafting the 2021 NBA Draft — 30. Jaden Springer, Grizzlies

Another player who I have no lost faith in despite doing nothing of note in his rookie season. Jaden Springer spent virtually the entire season in Delaware with the Sixers’ G-League team, and even in that setting his numbers don’t leap off the screen. That said, Springer isn’t a “leap off the screen” kind of player. He does the dirty work, be it pressuring the point of attack on defense or making connective passes to keep the offense flowing.

As one of the youngest players in the draft, Springer was always going to need time. He’s not ready yet. He needs to get more comfortable handling the ball and he needs to up his volume from 3-point range. That said, Springer was one of the best perimeter defenders in college basketball as a teenager. Even at 6-foot-3, his length, strength, and knack for positioning make him a wise investment. The Grizzlies have more depth than any team in the NBA and can take their time developing Springer.

In the end, the extent of Springer’s development offensively will determine his NBA future. If he can become a reliable spot-up shooter, then his defense and I.Q. should carry him to useful minutes. If he can become more dynamic off the dribble, then there’s even more untapped potential there. Either way, he’s the type of extra-young prospect who could make the team picking him look like a genius in a few years time.