Free Agent Recap: 7 Players the New Orleans Pelicans Could Target
Scouting Report. player. 211. Pick Analysis. Guard/Small Forward. Memphis Grizzlies. Josh Jackson. 12
Strengths: Defensive versatility, size
Weaknesses: Shooting
Key Statistics: Career 29.8 percent 3-point shooter
How he fits with the Pelicans:
Josh Jackson is another wing who fits the profile of the 3-and-D defender that the New Orleans Pelicans covet on the wing.
Like Johnson, Jackson has plus size for the position at 6-foot-8 and the quickness to defend several positions in the NBA.
Also like Johnson, Jackson would need a visit to shot-doctor Vinson, as he has shot just 41.7 percent from the field for his career, including just 29.8 percent from 3-point range.
The New Orleans Pelicans want to play with pace and chuck long-range shots, so it seems like Jackson might not be a fit.
But they also need players who can defend, and Jackson has the tools to be a plus defender in the NBA.
He hasn’t gotten much of a chance in Memphis, as he’s been buried by other talented young players since being traded by the Suns, but he might be the type of guy who just needs a fresh start and some confidence.
Jackson is still only 22, so there is time for him to develop, but it probably won’t be with the Grizzlies, who already have a nice core of young talent and will likely be looking to supplement it with veterans in free agency.
Jackson had decent number in limited play for the Grizzlies, scoring 10.4 a game in just 19.8 minutes.
His age, size and potential may price him of the Pelicans’ range, but if they can get him on a minimum deal, it would be well worth the risk.
Big wings who can defend are hard to come by and won’t come cheap.
If the New Orleans Pelicans want to bolster their wing defense, they may have to take a risk on a young project like Johnson or Jackson.