The 2021 NBA Draft will take place on July 29 and a lot could change in terms of projections before that were to take place. One of the key factors that influences the potential order can be a strong outing in the NCAA March Madness Tournament. Jalen Suggs managed to improve his stock using his strong play for the Gonzaga Bulldogs.
One NBA GM recently expressed to ESPN NBA Insider Jordan Schultz that they would consider taking Jalen Suggs with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.
“One GM I spoke with said he would consider taking Jalen Suggs first overall. Why? It’s because Suggs possesses a rare combination of special tools: Elite playmaking, lockdown defending and an overall competitiveness that helps transform an entire team’s DNA.”
There’s a lot to like about what Jalen Suggs brings to the table as an NBA prospect. He brings impressive athleticism and plays nicely within the flow of his team’s offense. He’s shown improvement as a playmaker in pick-and-roll situations by creating shots for teammates. Suggs has always been capable of getting into the paint and finishing with his body control and timing. Let’s not forget, he’s also a strong defender that excels at guarding multiple positions.
When evaluating Suggs as an NBA prospect, there are some limitations that need to be talked about, especially under the context of being considered as an option with the No. 1 overall pick. For starters, he stands at 6-foot-4 with a below average wing span and doesn’t project as being elite in any one specific area at the next level. He’s still a high ceiling player but doesn’t appear to have the same unique potential as players like Cade Cunningham or Evan Mobley.
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Regardless of how strong of a performance Jalen Suggs managed to have, it’s difficult to envision him being selected before Cade Cunningham. There’s just too much to like about the complete offensive skill-set that Cunningham brings to the game at 6-foot-8, especially when considering he possesses a 7-foot wingspan. Those measurable are incredible for a point guard.
It will be fascinating to see who ends up selecting Jalen Suggs in the 2021 NBA Draft. He elevated his stock with his impressive play and even had one of the more iconic moments in tournament history with his near half-court game-winner in the Final Four.
