New York Knicks: Frank Jackson Could Be A 2017 NBA Draft Steal

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Mar 19, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) drives to the basket against South Carolina Gamecocks guard PJ Dozier (15) in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Elite Athleticism

Easily the most appealing aspect of what Frank Jackson brings to the table is his combination of size, length, and athleticism. Having already addressed the benefits of his physical profile, it’s only right to evaluate what elevates its significance.

Not only is Jackson built in an ideal manner for the point guard position, but he’s one of the most explosive athletes in this draft class.

Jackson ripped off a 42.0″ max vertical leap, which is the second-highest mark of any player who attended the 2017 NBA Draft Combine. Jackson ranked No. 1 at the Combine in the shuttle run and checked in at No. 5 in the three quarter sprint.

The shuttle run measures bursts of speed, which speaks to the paralyzing nature of Jackson’s first step, and the three quarter sprint measures how well that speed holds up over a distance.

With elite leaping ability, end-to-end speed, and burst off of a first dribble, the tools are in place for Jackson to be a game-changer. He clearly needs the prerequisite skills to be fairly labeled as a go-to scorer, but he’s physically gifted.

If the New York Knicks are going to lose Derrick Rose to free agency, then grooming Jackson could be an excellent way to replace his contributions.

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