Scouting Report: Jalen Green
By: Zach Blaine
For a little while now, Jalen Green has been in the public eye as his mesmerizing athletic ability has created one of the most polarizing mixtapes in recent memory. Choosing to pass on the college route, Green decided to go pro and play for the new G-League Ignite Team. In 15 games, he average just under 18 points a game while posting 46/36/82 shooting splits. Green has untapped potential that has him sitting right at the top of the NBA Draft.
Green has Ja Morant like force when dunking the ball as he explodes off the floor. His hang time is something to marvel at but he isn’t just an explosive athlete. It is apparent that he has worked on his footwork tremendously as he ha an array of step back and side steps in his package that allow him to generate his own shot with relative ease. Green is also a great decision maker with the basketball.
Where Green Can Flourish:
Any team in the draft would be grateful to add Green to its roster but them the team that makes the most sense would be the Houston Rockets. Holding the second overall pick, the Rockets need talent and perhaps nobody has more potential than Jalen Green. Pairing him with Kevin Porter Jr. could be one of the most exciting young duos in the NBA and coach Stephen Silas will be able to bring the two young men along together. John Wall is still there and he could be a great mentor for Green as he was too was selected to the guy.
Ceiling/Comparison:
The situation Jalen lands in will be a factor in his success but not the end all be all. He will be able to showcase his talents in any situation and could give Cade Cunningham a run for his money for the Rookie of the Year (ROTY) award. Comparisons to a young Kobe Bryant have been thrown around for Green but that is a little unfair and a lofty comparison. To tone it down a little, Green is an Indiana type Paul George with more of a point guards speed. He projects to be a force in the league for years to come.