2018 Orlando Magic NBA Draft Review: Justin Jackson always holds promise

By Philip Rossman-Reich | Jul 21, 2018

COLLEGE PARK, MD - NOVEMBER 18: Justin Jackson #21 of the Maryland Terrapins handles the ball against the Bucknell Bison at Xfinity Center on November 18, 2017 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images) /

4 of 5

Draft Sites Say

Eric Yearlan, NBADraft.net

"“Has ideal size for a small forward, standing 6’7” with a 7’2 wingspan and weighing in at 225 pounds … Possesses the athletic gifts that should entice teams to give him a hard look … Shot just under 44% from three point range during his freshman season at Maryland. . . . Is coming off a serious shoulder injury that cost him most of his sophomore season … Is turnover prone, averaging just under three giveaways per game last season … Shooting percentage dropped considerably in his second year of college basketball, although that can be attributed, at least in part, to his shoulder issue."

Cole Zwicker, The Stepien

"The “other” Jackson for most of the 2017 season, the less publicized Canadian might actually turn out to be the better NBA prospect. With Melo Trimble moving on, Jackson’s creation usage should increase, which will provide a better sample of how adept his perimeter skills are. His shot looks real, as does his above average defense, so if he can refine his handle and passing acumen, he’s a solid sleeper bet in this class."

Lamar Johnson, Testudo Times

"Jackson has the potential to play a lot of small ball 4 at the next level. With a 7-foot-3 wingspan, he can guard some of the stronger small forwards, while having enough footwork to guard out to the perimeter on stretch-4s. A lot of his fit depends on how well he shoots the ball. At best he can stretch the floor with some playmaking ability, grab rebounds and defend multiple positions. At worst, Jackson’s shot never fully returns and he is too slow laterally to keep up with NBA forwards. He will have to carve out a role as an average jump shooter, solid rebounder and above-average defender. His rebounding is the one thing that should keep him around, if all else fails."