3 Hidden Gems From The 2021 NBA Draft
While most people ignore second-round draft picks, this year breaks the mold. We have three second-picks who demand your attention.
David Zalubowski/Associated Press
Most NBA fans don’t get themselves familiarized with second-round draft picks. There’s a good reason for that. Most second-rounders don’t amount to much. For every Draymond Green and Nikola Jokic, there’s a Marcus Zegarowski.
However, this year has broken that mold. Instead of there being one or two decent players from the second round, we have three gems. These three players, in hindsight, should have been first-round selections.
Those players are Herb Jones of the Pelicans, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl of the Thunder, and Ayo Dosunmu of the Bulls. These three guys have been superb this season, playing important roles for their respective teams.
They’re giving you, the casual NBA fan, a reason to care about the second-round. Here’s why they’re so good.
Herb Jones (NOP)
With the 35th pick in the draft, the Pelicans took Herb Jones. During his four years at college, Jones was an elite defender. He took home 2021 SEC Defensive Player of the Year Honors.
That combination of experience (Jones is already 23 y/o) and alien-like athleticism has turned Herb Jones into a stud. His 7-foot wingspan has spurred him into the starting power forward job in New Orleans. He hasn’t looked back since.
9.6 points / 2.6 stocks / 1.2 DBPM / 37% 3-PT
Getting Downhill
Jones loved to get downhill while at Alabama. Whether it be off a rebound or one of his numerous steals, Jones thrives in the open court. That was well on display last night against Denver, where Jones was a one-man wrecking crew.
Monte Morris stood no chance on this play.
Everything great about Herb Jones was displayed in this play. The defense, the length, the athleticism? Everything.
Nikola Jokc is a good eight feet away from Herb Jones. That still doesn’t impede him from getting right to the rim.
The Pelicans were looking for a defensive-minded wing. Now, I don’t know how Herb Jones will fit with Zion (assuming Zion ever plays again.) But, I think the Pelicans have found a role player for the future. Their organization still doesn’t know what they’re doing, but they have Herb Jones.
Not a bad secondary prize.
Ayo Dosunmu (CHI)
Chicago’s offseason was about big spending. The additions of Ball, Caruso, and DeRozan were the talk of the town. Their drafting of the Illinois product, Ayo Dosunmu, went under the radar. The homegrown product had a legendary 2020 campaign with the fighting Illini (need to work on that team name).
He was the Cousy Award winner. An All-American. He led Illinois to their best season since 2005. And he’s quickly turning into a can’t miss player in the NBA.
7.9 points / 62% TS / 2.7 assists / great name
Playmaking
Coming into the NBA, I wasn’t expecting Ayo Dosunmu to be a floor general. Sure, he won the best point guard in college. But, to me, I always thought of him as a secondary creator. There’s a reason they call the draft a crapshoot.
With injuries ravaging the Bulls, Dosunmu has gotten a chance to become the lead ball-handler. He’s had three games with 10+ assists in the last three weeks. He had 14 more dimes last night against Indiana.
This pass isn’t jaw-dropping, but the only reason Brown scores is because of this pass. Dosunmu leads him perfectly, allowing him to continue to the rim. Instead of leading him to the sideline, it’s to the basket.
It’s a small thing, but it’s what separates floor generals.
I’m a sucker for a good pocket pass.
Even when the Bulls get their backcourt back, I could see Dosunmu remained relevant for their bench unit. His feel for the game is superb at this stage. Playmaking has been his biggest strength so far, but he’s not a slouch scoring the ball.
As the Bulls remain atop the East, Dosunmu will continue to be a driving force for them.
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (OKC)
The Thunder desperately wanted Evan Mobley down low to anchor them for years. When they couldn’t get that done, they settled for Jeremiah Robinson-Earl. It hasn’t been the worst consolation prize in the world.
With the 32nd pick, if you’re able to get someone as solid as JRE, you’ll take it. Earl is a solid player on both ends. He’s a good rebounder. He can stretch the floor. Defense isn’t a different language to him. Again, JRE is not a bad consolation prize.
7.1 points / 5.8 rebounds (1.6 ORB) / 51% TS
Jack of All Trades
Earl hasn’t played in a few games, but I want to talk about his game against the Hornets on January 21st. I think this game best describes Earl, someone who can do everything.
He grabbed 11 rebounds on the night. He had 12 points on 63% shooting. All of that came in just 24 minutes.
As a trailer, I think JRE can become a weapon. Similar to Kevin Love, defenses have to worry about so much more when there’s a trailer. PJ Washington can’t get out in time to defend this shot.
Great defense here on the elusive Bouknight. Not many guys who are 230 pounds can do this.
Again, to reiterate, JRE is not flashy. You’re not going to see Josh Giddey-like laser beams from him. Evan Mobley’s ridiculous defensive plays aren’t a staple for the undersized center.
I think of Earl as Derrick Favors 2.0. A somewhat undersized, but strong presence down low. He will set some screens, grab some rebounds, all without saying one word. Somewhat reliable from outside the paint as well.
Every team needs someone like Derrick Favors. Someone who can do the little things without complaining. JRE accomplishes that for the Thunder.
Rapid-Fire Questions
- Who has the highest upside?
Herb Jones by a mile. The best-case scenario is he turns into Mikal Bridges. He’s already a great defender, but questions remain about his offense. Nonetheless, really excited about his future in New Orleans.
- Who impacts winning the most?
I would say Herb Jones, but I’ll go with a curveball here. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is the ideal backup big for most teams. He’s slightly undersized, but he moves well in space and understands his role. Every team could use him.
- Who do you want on your team right now?
Ayo Dosunmu. He’s calm, cool, and collected under pressure. He’s playing on a contending team, one that trusts him. He’ll get some role in the playoffs, so he can look to make a splash there. Could turn into Robert Horry, someone reliable when you need them the most. Just saying.
What Are Your Thoughts On These Second-Round Picks? Leave A Comment Down Below!
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