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NBA Draft 2020 Prospect Watch: Jalen Smith

By Jordan Treske

COLLEGE PARK, MD - MARCH 08: (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
COLLEGE PARK, MD - MARCH 08: (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /
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COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND – JANUARY 30: (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND – JANUARY 30: (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Weaknesses

For all of the improvements and skills that Smith has assembled so far throughout his development, the 6’10” big man will have to improve upon his frame at the next level.

Smith’s limited vertical athleticism could come to rear its ugly head, whether it’s loading up to finish at the basket or leaping up to contest and/or alter shots on the defensive end. And certainly being able to withstand the physicality and strength from opposing centers will force Smith to continue filling out his body as he matures physically and gains reps in the NBA.

Returning to his play on the court, Smith’s passing limitations stand as a key missing piece within his offensive repertoire.

Having accumulated just 54 total assists and a 0.57 assist-to-turnover ratio with the Terrapins, Smith’s feel and reading of the game is very incomplete at this stage as he struggles to make snap decisions with the ball, whether at a standstill, driving inside or from the post.

And those combination of concerns really do affect Smith’s overall viability within the post and his touch from there doesn’t stand up to where his overall shot stands elsewhere on the floor.

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