5. Mitchell Robinson – C
2018-19 Stats: 7.3 PTS, 70% FG, 6.4 REB, 0.8 STL, 2.4 BLK
Boy, can Mitchell Robinson block some shots or what? 2.4 blocks per game not only led all the rookies, but was good enough for second in the entire league.
Standing 7’1″ with a 7’4″ wingspan, it’s no surprise that Robinson makes his money with blocked shots and dunks. He is in the same vein as DeAndre Jordan (who is now his teammate) and could be effective in the league as a rim protector and rim runner for years.
Should he be able to stay in New York with whatever star they land, he could see a down-tick scoring. If he is traded to New Orleans as part of a potential Anthony Davis deal, it will be fun to see him run the court with (presumably) Zion Williams. Either way, Robinson has a bright career ahead of him.
4. Jaren Jackson Jr. – PF/C
2018-19 Stats: 13.8 PTS, 50% FG, 4.7 REB, 1.1 AST, 0.9 STL, 1.4 BLK
Memphis finally made a solid pick by taking Jaren Jackson Jr. The young man is great on both ends of the court, especially as a rim protector. JJJ and Jonas Valanciunas will be solid running mates and Memphis may have a nice little trio set up once they take Ja Morant, assuming he is who they go with 2nd overall this season.
Jackson only played in 56 games, but Memphis has to be happy with his production. He’s capable at the rim offensively and like most modern bigs, isn’t afraid of stepping out to the three point line. (35.9% on 2.4 attempts)
Memphis has a real one here.