grant101 wrote:Rapsfan07 wrote:Dalek wrote:I can't really see what is missing from Colby Jones, especially in this draft class his age could be forgiven. He fits what most teams want on the floor in close games and/or playoff games.
-Can play either guard spot and is a good enough playmaker to at least be a secondary
-Can guard 1-4 positions
-Shoots threes at 38%
-6'6 height and good wingspan
-Average to good NBA athlete (maybe a bit Brogdon like)
To me there is no question this guy will get on a NBA floor tomorrow.
I've been saying this from the start. He should get NBA minutes from the start and will likely be a valuable contributor for years to come.
The only reason I can see for him constantly being mocked so low is because he doesn't have a very high ceiling. Teams want that hidden gem superstar and rationalize swinging for that over taking what is a pretty sure thing but is unlikely to be a star. For me, if you're picking that late and there's a guy who is guaranteed to be a high level, two way rotation guy, I take that and run.
Really, really hope we find a way to acquire a late first and grab him. He's been my guy from the start and this team desperately needs a do-it-all guard with size. Even if all he becomes is a back up, that's the most depth we've had at that position in 4 years and still has room to improve. I see a Josh Hart floor, Malcolm Brogdon ceiling.
Jones could very well turn out to be a player, but there is absolutely risk there. He's a jack of all trades, master of none type. Below the rim athlete, average defender, with a one year sample of decent shooting. He'll play a supporting role in the league, so is also unlikely to get the opportunity to showcase the one skill that sets him apart - passing. For every Malcolm Brogdon, there are many more Justin Andersons, Robert Woodards and David Johnsons. Jones reminds me more of Wendell Moore than any of the other names mentioned
I think he leans more to the Malcolm Brogdon end of things, personally. The failed guys you mentioned are nowhere near the leader Jones is for Xavier, which was a veteran heavy team. He effectively ran the offense for a lot of stretches and became a go-to scorer for them. He led them to a Sweet 16 as the primary PG and they also won their Big East tournament. He also was the best player on the floor twice against UConn and led them to two wins.
Regarding the athleticism, yes he is below the rim but he has sneaky athleticism and can get up when he has head of steam much like Brogdon. He still attacks the basket he leans on his floater. Good numbers for a guard:
61% at the rim
30.5 FTR
From what I see, he has a good handle, he passes well in pick and roll, boards and just can play a number of roles on offense and defense. Shooting is only one year of growth, but still promising. He is a great utility guy which can really solidify the bench and spot start.