Indiana Pacers rookie Isaiah Jackson entered the NBA known as a strong defender, but the 22nd pick is also emerging as a lob threat on the offensive end of the floor.
Jackson, in 22 games, is averaging 6.5 points, three rebounds and one block with the Pacers this season. He played sparingly to begin the season but has seen a larger role with the team as of late, earning the start in each of the Pacers’ last two games.
The 20-year-old has dazzled throughout the season with his athleticism and leaping ability. He has shown that he can switch onto smaller guards on defense while also controlling the paint. On offense, he is active on the glass and is consistently a lob threat down low.
Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton believes Jackson is a great lob threat.
Isaiah really flies. I think he has the potential to be one of the biggest lob threats in this league so just keep learning each other and him learning how I like him to set screens. We’re playing against different coverages every night so just keep learning the game, keep thinking the game the right way where he is getting closer and that’s helping.
Jackson recorded 11 points, four rebounds and three blocked shots on Sunday in a win over the Boston Celtics. He appears to be building a nice pairing with Haliburton after they connected on a few lobs in the fourth quarter on Sunday.
The Pacers will use the final stretch of the season to build chemistry with each other with so many newcomers on the roster. However, Jackson and the rest of the team appear to be gelling well together and that should be an encouraging sign moving forward.
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