We dive into the preview of the 2020-21 NBA season for the LA Clippers, this time focusing on Reggie Jackson.
If you are reading this, I’m sure you have a strong opinion on Reggie Jackson as a member of the LA Clippers. I have to assume that your opinion is a negative one at that.
Let’s face it, he did not have a good showing in his short amount of time with the team last season. When he was re-signed, the internet bemoaned the deal. I get it. The reality of the situation is though that he is not only a member of this team but also likely the second point guard on the depth chart.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at what success in that role would be.
LA Clippers: Reggie Jackson Preview – Things to Keep Doing Well
As odd as it is, it’s not hard to find things Reggie Jackson does well. The best thing he did for this team was being a spot-up shooter.
It’s hard to believe, but of Clippers that shot more than one spot-up attempt per game, Jackson was the team’s best shooter. On his 2.2 attempts, Jackson connected on an astounding 56.8%.
Even further in catch-and-shoot situations, Jackson made 45.2% of his attempts from three. Statistically, he might have been one of, if not the, best shooters from deep last season. Weird, right?
If he can recognize that his role is best as a shooter, he would be perfect for this team. He may be the point guard but alongside the likes of Luke Kennard and Lou Williams on the bench unit, he doesn’t necessarily need to have the ball in his hands and can play more of a spot-up shooter role while the other two isolate and distribute.
When he does have the ball in his hands though, he needs to realize he can push the pace. There’s a caveat to this, though. Reggie is great at being aggressive and attacking defenses in transition AT TIMES. A lot of the time, he pushes but ultimately makes a poor decision whether it be attacking multiple defenders at the rim or pulling up for an unwarranted shot from deep.
If the team is out and running and Reggie can make a smart decision while bringing the ball up, I’m all for it!
Now, let’s look at what he needs to do better.