2018 Orlando Magic NBA Draft Preview: Who is Jaren Jackson Jr.?

Final Word

Jaren Jackson Jr. is a really interesting and promising prospect. He has all the athleticism and talent that a team could want. And all the skills of a modern center.

His shot blocking is most impressive. This is a player who takes pride in his defense and has great skill in the paint and on the perimeter. That versatility from the center position is in vogue right now, but also vital to competing at the highest levels.

Jackson fits this modern mold.

And it is not just his defense. He has shown an ability to shoot from the perimeter, possibly expanding to the 3-point line. Jackson can also drive and put the ball on the floor, although at a very basic level at the moment.

It all puts together an intriguing potential package. He may take some time to develop into a true impact player, but he can do the things a team needs in the short-term until he reaches that point.

That is if he can keep everything in check.

That was something Jackson struggled with in his time with Michigan State. He was foul prone and did not play major minutes. It is hard to get a complete picture of him.

Young players — especially shot blockers — are often too eager to go for blocks. This puts them out of position at times. And that makes it difficult to judge them completely.

Jackson fall s into that trap and you might expect with a young player. That does not mean he cannot be reigned in or learn how to channel his timing and shot blocking better. He absolutely should.

But Jackson is one of the bigger potential plays in this Draft. He has all the skills a team might want in a center prospect. Especially with the way the league is trending. He can protect the rim and shot from the outside. That is plenty to build from with Jackson.

The question will be how he develops and how he will gain that control over his athletic ability.

Next: 2018 NBA Draft Preview: Who is Donte DiVincenzo

The potential is tantalizing.