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NBA Draft prospects to watch for the Orlando Magic: Christmas Edition

By Ricky Scricca

TUCSON, AZ - DECEMBER 09: Collin Sexton #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide passes the ball around Allonzo Trier #35 of the Arizona Wildcats during the second half of the college basketball game at McKale Center on December 9, 2017 in Tucson, Arizona. The Wildcats defeated the Crimson Tide 88-82. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
TUCSON, AZ - DECEMBER 09: Collin Sexton #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide passes the ball around Allonzo Trier #35 of the Arizona Wildcats during the second half of the college basketball game at McKale Center on December 9, 2017 in Tucson, Arizona. The Wildcats defeated the Crimson Tide 88-82. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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Justin Jackson, Maryland

Justin Jackson is a polarizing prospect. Some mock drafts have him comfortably in the top 10, others not even in the first round. But his physicals alone will have him on many teams’ radars.

His defensive potential is obvious. His ball skills also make him an intriguing potential fit alongside Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac, both of whom are stronger off the ball. Gordon, in particular, is extremely inefficient with the ball in his hands so having a wing that could alleviate some of those duties would be beneficial.

His shooting numbers are not great right now – only 25 percent from three despite shooting 40 percent in U19 competition and 44 percent on 105 attempts last year – but his free throw numbers provide reasons for optimism.

His impressive 7-foot-3 wingspan and strong frame should allow him to operate as a small-ball five, which would ameliorate any possible shooting issues. He has massive hands and great defensive instincts that will allow him to credibly guard all five positions while racking up impressive steal and block numbers.

For his college career, he has rebounded 17.7 percent of opponent misses. Among forwards that number would put him at around the 90th percentile in the NBA. He would fill many needs for the Magic, but perhaps none as dire as defensive rebounding.

Even though his primary position is the same as Gordon and Isaac’s, the trio’s versatility could allow them to play together effectively, especially if Jackson can improve his playmaking chops.

As NBA teams continue to play smaller, Isaac and Jackson could both get center minutes. Against bigger teams, Jackson and Gordon can both defend opposing guards. On offense, all three can space the floor, all three can cut off the ball and one can handle. The fit would be anything but traditional but it could definitely work.

In a draft loaded with physical specimens, Jackson is one of its most impressive. His ball skills would make him a very interesting choice for the Magic, especially if they want to continue loading up on wingspan and athleticism.