:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69632052/1231563395.0.jpg)
The 2021 NBA draft will take place Thursday, July 29 with the Detroit Pistons holding the No. 1 pick. The Houston Rockets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors and Orlando Magic round out the top five selections.
We take a look at some of the prospects available in this draft, gauge their strengths, weaknesses, NBA comparisons and best landing spot within the player’s projected draft range. Here’s a breakdown for G-League Ignite guard Jalen Green.
Strengths
Green is an athletic freak who can make plays in transition routinely. He’s an aggressive finisher who has a lot of success attacking the basket. His free throw shooting percentages bode well for his already decent outside shot. His development is already accelerated due to his time in the G-League.
Weaknesses
He needs to be a better defender, especially in terms of effort. Green had too many hustle lapses for someone with his athletic ability. He can also become a better passer, though that’ll come with time.
Player Comparison
The best comparison for Green is Zach LaVine, who went from a Slam Dunk contest regular to NBA All-Star. Green has the same tools and skills as LaVine did coming into the league and will be tasked with scoring the ball well.
Best Landing Spot
Green is expected to be one of the first players off the board and there’s intrigue as to whether he’ll go the Houston Rockets or Cleveland Cavaliers. The Rockets offer Green the most immediate chance at regular playing time, but he could fit better next to Cleveland’s ball handlers as a third guard. The Rockets are likely the better fit for his long-term development.