2018 Orlando Magic NBA Draft Preview: Taking a chance on Jarred Vanderbilt

By Ricky Scricca | Jun 8, 2018

LEXINGTON, KY - JANUARY 23: Jarred Vanderbilt #2 of the Kentucky Wildcats grabs a offensive rebound over the Mississippi State Bulldogs defenders during the first half at Rupp Arena on January 23, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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Draft Sites Say

Mike Schmitz, DraftExpress

"In the half court, Vanderiblt does most of his damage off the ball. He’s an excellent cutter and an outstanding offensive rebounder. He shows tremendous feel moving off the ball and almost always crashes the glass from the weak side. Vanderbilt can operate with the ball a little bit in the half court as he’s a comfortable straight line slasher, but he doesn’t have overly long strides, he isn’t a threat to shoot it (either off the catch or the bounce) and has very average touch around the rim with both hands. While he’s excellent off the ball, Vanderbilt doesn’t offer much in terms of scoring in the half court. On the defensive side of the ball, Vanderbilt is a monster. He can guard at least three positions thanks to his size, length, lateral quickness and instincts. Vanderbilt is better defending the perimeter at this stage because of his extremely thin lower body coupled with his ability to fight over screens and contest jumpers."

Sam Vecenie, The Athletic

"Vanderbilt had a tough year following a spate of injuries — something that is becoming all too common in his career. Vanderbilt has suffered multiple stress fractures over the last two years to his left foot, and a few additional ankle injuries. NBA teams will look closely at his medical testing results hoping to find that he can stay healthy. When he’s on the floor, Vanderbilt brings a few terrific aspects as well as one glaring weakness. Vanderbilt is a terrific defender, utilizing quick feet and length to cover ground on the perimeter with ease. He also has potential as a strong rim protector. Additionally, Vanderbilt’s nose for the ball can’t be understated, as he’s an elite rebounder for his size because of his motor and instincts. Once he gets that ball, he can grab and go and lead the break himself, and tends to operate best as a point-forward with strong passing ability. Still, the biggest issue is that he really struggles to shoot, to the point that NBA teams simply won’t guard him away from the basket if he were to enter the league. He’d be a liability in the half court."

Kevin O’Connor, The Ringer

"Plays with unbelievable energy and charisma; he’s a tone-setter on defense. Arguably the most versatile defender in the draft; has the frame, length, speed, and mind-set to become a four- or five-position defender. Not an elite shot blocker, but uses long wingspan to alter shots inside. . . . Suffered multiple foot injuries in high school and missed three months at Kentucky after surgery on his left foot. A disastrous shooter with poor touch on shots from any distance outside of the restricted area. The lack of offensive spacing he provides will be an issue unless he’s surrounded by shooters."

Evan Tomes, NBADraft.net

"6’9 left handed point forward … Great size and length with a 7’1 wingspan and 8’10 standing reach, especially for a wing … Good athlete and versatility. Good vertical and coordination. . . . Can create jump shots but struggles to connect with consistency. Did show improvement in his senior year but still has a way to go in all areas as a shooter; free throws, midrange, and three point. Occasionally misses the rim on free throws. Shot 19% from three and 38.6% from free throw over the Nike EYBL … Great tools defensively but can show more commitment to that end of the floor."