Since I see those 3 as the consensus top 3, getting the shaft, err, the fourth pick would be disappointing. Yet the 4th pick is likely the worst we would do so working on seeing "tier 2" prospects isn't a waste of time.
If those 3 are the consensus top 3 I would be trilled to be at 4 because my #2 prospect Jayson Tatum is still on the board. Now that Duke has finally figured out roles of players people will see him shine although I agree with his trainer that with more space on the floor he will be much better than what we see now.
I have watched the guy for 3 years and I dont see how his scoring doesnt translate to the next level.
there is some level of concern that his below the rim game combined with his lack of a 3-point shot could leave him struggling at the next level, but that is a minor concern.
The fact that a choice between Isaac or Tatum is a consolation prize is super exciting.
I understand those concerns but I dont have those concerns. The guy knows how to create space for his shot. He has the stroke to hit 3s. My concern with 3s is more his willingness to take them and take them off the catch than the shot itself.
He just like Jaylen before him gets in trouble trying to do too much hence some of Duke's early troubles. Bad shots. Not finding teammates (although Jaylen really didnt have people to pass to).
But like Jaylen I think when you put him on the Cs his talents shine because he isnt forced to be the man or justify being a top rated player. He can do what he does best without having to force it.
Lastly, I like Jayson for the same reason I like Jaylen. They work on their games. I cant understate the importance of a guy working on his game when I look at a player. Give me an elite guy that works on his game because I know he is interested in improving. I felt that way about Jaylen and I feel that way about Jayson.
Between Jackson and Tatum who would you choose?
I would choose Tatum but not by much. Jackson has always been one of the top 3 players on the floor no matter who is on the floor with him. One on One I think Jackson gives Tatum fits at time.
I also think Jackson checks off more boxes than Tatum, BUT I Tatum's ability to score ranks higher to me.
When I evaluate the two as prospects, I worry more about Jackson's shot and ability to score one on one than the flaws in Tatum's game thus I would take Tatum. This is not a universally accepted position but as with Jaylen, I can only go by what I have seen over a 2 or 3 year period.
