Nets select Jarrett Allen 22nd Overall
The Brooklyn Nets selected Texas Center Jarrett Allen with the 22nd pick in the draft Thursday night.
Allen fell to Brooklyn at 22 after many mock drafts had him slotted in the mid teens. The former 5-star recruit averaged 13.4 PPG, 8.5 RPG, and 1.5 BPG his Freshman year at Texas.
Allen, having turned just 19-years-old in April, has tremendous upside. A large amount of this upside is attributed to Allen's tremendous physical skill set. The Texas native stands 6'11", weighs 234 pounds, and has a massive 7'5" wingspan. Allen uses that wingspan to grab rebounds, block shots, and finish in a variety of ways around the rim.
The 19-year-old has a solid frame, but will need to spend some time in the weight room and fill out if he wants to bang inside with NBA centers.
Allen has the ability to be a tremendous player on the defensive end. He is able to defend well against guards on the pick and roll, using his quick feet and long arms to stay in front and contest shots. Allen also uses his long strides to close out to outside shooting big men. Centers who can defend effectively on the perimeter and protect the rim do not come around often in the NBA.
Kenny Atkinson will look to develop an offensive game that possesses a solid base of skills. Allen is very consistent around the rim, converting 68% of his shot attempts in college. Finishing ability and a mid range jump shot allow Allen to screen for guards on the perimeter and pose a threat on the roll or pop. Allen also displays a soft touch when playing with his back to the basket.
Another facet of his game that could make Allen a special player is his ability to run. Allen uses his long strides to run the length of the court and get out on the fast break. The 22nd pick in this years draft has the physical tools and athletic ability to be molded into a top-tier center.
Sean Marks was thrilled to have a player like Allen fall to the Nets at 22. Kenny Atkinson voiced his approval to the media on Friday saying, "It's rare when you get your guy. We got our guy."
The acquisition of D'Angelo Russell and selection of Allen represents the beginning of the Nets ascension back to competitive basketball. Brooklyn fans can finally cheer for an organization that has found some much needed direction. Sean Marks and Kenny Atkinson can take credit for that.