NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Post-lottery predictions and shockers in the first-round
149. Pick Analysis. 16. player. Scouting Report. PF/C. Kentucky. Isaiah Jackson
NBA Mock Draft 16th Pick: Oklahoma City Thunder (via Boston Celtics)
After dealing away veteran Al Horford and Moses Brown, the Oklahoma City Thunder are left with only one true big man on the roster: the perimeter-oriented Mike Muscala, unless you’re counting the 7’0 Aleksej Pokusevski. I’m not.
Although the Thunder couldn’t care less if they have a bunch of roster holes with their in-your-face, just-gimme-your-draft-picks brand of rebuilding, they still need to trot out a lineup on the floor which can viably compete on the NBA level. Fortunately, they can strike two birds with one stone with their need for a big man and a young asset with Isaiah Jackson.
The Kentucky standout is a phenomenal shot blocker who can be reasonably expected to anchor the defense for the ailing Thunder. While his offensive game is currently limited, his wing-like motor and athleticism makes him a huge asset as a defender, capable of switching onto guards when needed.