Chicago Bulls big board for 2018 NBA Draft
By Ryan Heckman
4. Center Jaren Jackson Jr., Michigan State
There is some debate whether Jaren Jackson Jr. should go ahead of the next guy on this list, and it’s pretty close. In any event, the center out of MIchigan State would be a phenomenal value for the Bulls at no. 7.
If you look at Jackson’s averages from last season, which was his only season at Michigan State, you wouldn’t guess him to be a top-4 pick in the draft. In fact, based on stats alone, Jackson’s draft stock would be more or less of a later first round type of guy. In his freshman year, Jackson put up 10.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per game.
Jaren Jackson Jr. of @MSU_Basketball named 2017-18 #B1GMBBall Freshman of the Year by conference coaches and media pic.twitter.com/BIE1nTTtOP
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 26, 2018
The one thing that stands out, statistically, is the fact that his blocks-per-40-minute average is a whopping 5.5. Jackson’s athletic ability carried him through his freshman year and we saw a very talented and raw player develop quickly before our eyes.
Still, Jackson’s stock has a lot to do with potential, because of that rapid development throughout last season. Teams are intrigued by his long frame enabling him to protect the rim, as well as his diverse offensive game. His stroke isn’t anything to marvel at, but Jackson did shoot nearly 40 percent from beyond the arc last year and is comfortable in the mid-range area.
The biggest thing going into the NBA is going to be continuing his development in his mechanics, as well as putting on some weight — ideally, muscle.