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

Nov 29, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) reacts after scoring against the Michigan State Spartans in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) reacts after scoring against the Michigan State Spartans in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 17, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) shoots the ball against Troy Trojans guard B.J. Miller (11) during the second half in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) shoots the ball against Troy Trojans guard B.J. Miller (11) during the second half in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Scoring Instincts

Frank Jackson has a special combination of size, athleticism, and fearlessness as a scorer. The Duke Blue Devils standout admittedly received limited run as a freshman, but he showed no qualms about shooting when his number was called.

His 3-point shooting may keep him employed, but it’s the other aspects of his game as a scorer that enable sneaky potential as a scorer.

Jackson has the explosiveness to take defenders off the bounce and the improving handles to support that approach. He’s skilled in the way he utilizes his body in the lane, as he consistently draws contact and gets to the free throw line.

Jackson admittedly plays too much for the foul on the drive, but he make a stronger effort than most his age to finish at the rim.

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Jackson’s game as a scorer is that he’s already developing a floater. His ability to convert from just outside the paint will make it even more difficult for interior defenders to anticipate his intentions on the drive.

There’s no rational way to argue that Jackson will develop into a high-level scorer at the next level, but he has the foundational skills and athleticism to become that type of player.

Must Read: 2017 NBA Mock Draft: New York Knicks and a full Round 1

The question is: will the New York Knicks have an opportunity to be the team that taps into Frank Jackson’s intriguing upside?