Most people seem to have Duren around 10-12, so I kind of assumed it was the consensus. Then, I looked at ESPN’s draft and big board, which had him 5th in the mock draft and 4th in draft board. This is the arguments for and against Jalen Duren:
For: “Duren changed a handful of shots at the rim with his 7-foot-5 wingspan, timing, and quick-leaping ability. He displayed perfect versatility technique against Murray State and is averaging 4.6 blocks per 40 minutes.” (Mike Schmitz, ESPN)
Against “I think his defense is vastly overrated, not always on time with rotations and the lateral quickness is nowhere near that of Bam [Adebayo], but I also don’t see the interior defense and to a much lesser extent his size” (ShooterMcGrady)
For: “Jalen is a physically imposing force who is too much to handle for most opposing bigs. He’s a man among boys. He dunks everything around the rim and is an intimidator on both ends of the floor. He’s got extremely long arms and big hands, which help him control lob passes and offensive rebounds with ease. There might not be a better rebounder in college basketball and this is a skill that will translate to the highest level of play.” (NBA Draft Room)
Against: “Offensively, he can look a bit lost at times. He can become easily distracted. He doesn't always play in control and his offensive rebounding can become streaky at times.” (Spurs4Ever)
For: “6’10 big man … Great length with a 7’5 wingspan and big hands … Very good mobility … Explosive athlete, gets up quick and effortless. Good second jump. Dunks everything within close … Efficient around the basket.“ (NBA Draft.net)
Against: On both ends he has problems due to motor and processing speed, he always seems one step behind, and on defense especially it tends to take a crazy block or big dunk to really get him into it, which just isn't gonna cut it. I don’t see him as much more than your stereotypical rim running big. (ShooterMcGrady)
So, I’ve got a few questions for the community of Fanspo.
Where should Jalen Duren get drafted?
Is he overrated by ESPN and other websites at 5?
Is it right to have him outside the top 10?
I’d like to hear your thoughts on this