Thunderous Intentions
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Ten prospects for the Thunder to watch during the Draft

By Tony Heim

Mar 17, 2017; Tulsa, OK, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts during the second half against the USC Trojans in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2017; Tulsa, OK, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts during the second half against the USC Trojans in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at BOK Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Justin Jackson
Apr 3, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Justin Jackson (44) cuts the net after the win over the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the championship game of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. North Carolina defeated Gonzaga 71-65. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Justin Jackson, Small Forward

Unlike the other players on this list, Justin Jackson can come in and feasibly start in the NBA right way. The junior made a monster leap this past season at UNC, solidifying his case as the most well-rounded player entering the Draft.

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Jackson already can do the two most important things at the NBA level: shoot and defend. And he can do both at the Thunder’s biggest overall position of need. Standing at 6’7 with a 6’11 wingspan, the 22-year old has the prototypical size for a multi-position defender. His huge step in his jumper, from barely shooting threes his sophomore season to coming off screens for catch-and-shoot opportunities his junior season, indicate a ridiculous work ethic as well.

Like Kennard, Jackson surely won’t be there at pick #21. But unlike Kennard, it may be worthwhile for the Thunder to trade up and select the UNC product. Jackson fits the exact mold Oklahoma City is looking for out of a perimeter player. He’s already a two-way player unlike any other young perimeter prospect on the roster, plus he has the attitude Sam Presti is looking for in a young player.

I’m not sure I want Oklahoma City trading up in tonight’s Draft. If they do though, the pick has to be for Justin Jackson. If they don’t, its because they can wait at #21 to pick this guy.

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