Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
Since I've spent approximately 32 seconds analyzing the Celtics draft prospects, let's go to ESPN's Chad Ford for insight into Jackson:
Ironically, in a small way, Boston College's best scorer has a better upside as a defender in the NBA. On offense, quickness is the ultimate weapon, as it allows for the ability to get by people or draw a foul call, thanks to the more stringent way NBA games are called now when a player's progress is impeded by a defender.
But on defense, that weapon is length (not height). I don't focus on wingspan as much as sleeve length, and Jackson appears to have the kind of arms that will require a tailor for all his shirts and suits going forward. Length makes a difference as an on-ball defender, allowing for more space to be provided the ball handler while still being able to influence a dribble, pass or shot. This gives the defender more "reward" plays with less "risk," which is always a good formula. Long arms will help Jackson deny his man better, as well as make plays as a helper. He has not shown any great ability to be a chaos creator while at BC, though that could easily be due to strategic decisions made by the staff, or because Jackson needed to save some energy for his offense. But until he commits to being a difference-maker on defense, he's just a "potential" guy on that side of the court.
It's safe to say Doc Rivers would sign-off on any guy with such defensive potential. But I'm just not excited about any combo guard. Wake me when they sniff out a big man.
The rest of the links:
CSNNE – Celtics title enhanced by Heat failure | ESPN – Bracelet? No thanks, Dirk, Mavs want rings |
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