NBA Draft 2021: Stock watch after month of conference games

SO Trayce Jackson-Davis – Indiana Hoosiers- 6’9, 245 lbs

Stock: Down

The raw box score numbers suggest Jackson-Davis has taken a  leap in his sophomore season and while I think he’s much improved as a college player, he’s taken few steps forward as a prospect. I came away intrigued by the Indiana native after a productive freshman season. He showed he’s a very good mover for someone of his size. But, I needed to see him take large steps forward as a shooter and a passer.

To be frank, he’s done neither of those. Jackson-Davis has yet to attempt a three-pointer in his college career. He’s remained about the same as a free throw shooter and is 23-71 on twos not at the rim. Jackson-Davis is also the “Daniel Oturu” award winner for the player most averse to using his weak hand. He simply refuses to go right and it has inhibited his ability to score. When watching him live, it was obvious everyone on Illinois’ roster knew he was going to go left every time.

Jackson-Davis’ assist numbers have plateaued while his turnovers have increased. He doesn’t process the floor fast enough on the short roll.

Defensively, I still really like Jackson-Davis. He helped stifel Luka Garza and the Iowa Hawkeyes. He’s good on the ball, in pick-and-roll, and makes smart rotations. I believe he’s an NBA level defender. But the offensive skill set isn’t there and the complete reluctance to shoot or use his right hand hasn’t shown improvement, making me question his path to NBA minutes.