Jalen Wilson

Overview

Jalen Wilson is a big physical Dynamic Wing with the potential to also be a good defender.  Wilson scores on all three levels. A four year college player’s age could be seen as negative.  However, Wilson isa  winner,  NCAA champion and Big 12 Player of the Year.  Plays with infectious emotion without being a distraction to the team.

NBA Skill:  Efficient scoring

Offense

Jalen Wilson can score on all three levels.  Shooting 43/34/80, Wilson does need to bump up his FG%.  He is excellent as a second side wing that can attack close outs or space the floor.  He makes timely cuts and plays with a high level of physicality that will translate well to the NBA level.  Plays bigger than his size and loves to initiate contact both against bigger defenders and against mismatches.  Wilson also has good touch around the rim and finishes through and around contact.

Wilson needs development in shot creation and, for now, is not a late clock option in a pinch.  He will also need development in his handle to add playmaking off the bounce to his menu.  Unlikely to be a primary option but has the IQ to play off the ball and contribute to winning.

Jalen Wison primary play types are those that are most frequently run by NBA teams.  It is unlikely he will be given opportunities to get Post Up or Off Screens touches as he is not efficient shooting off motion.

Assists and Decision Making

Wilson is a solid decision maker.  He makes the right reads in transition and even in limited P/R actions but he does not have a broad menu of advanced passes.  Despite a scoring role on his team his assists per game are still comparable with previously drafted wings.  Willson plays with purpose and he avoids dumb turnovers and ill-advised passes. 

Rebounding and Defense

Jalen Wilson is an excellent rebounder which is an indicator of his tough physical style of play.  An exceptional motor is the foundation for his elite rebounding.  Kansas’ defense stays solid and does not gamble which contributes to Wilson’s, low defensive numbers across the board.  Wilson could blossom in defensive playmaking if given more room to take more chances and be physical on the defensive end.

Signature Game: Kansas v Kansas State