Jarnell Stokes
Age: 20
Height: 6’8″
Weight: 260 pounds
Position: Power Forward
School: Tennessee
NBA Comparison: DeJaun Blair/Zach Randolph
If there is one first round pick that is flying under the radar in regards to hype, it’s Jarnell Stokes. The former Volunteer has a game that may not be flashy, but it is efficient. Other topics such as Embiid’s stock falling, Parker and Wiggins rising, the potential of Aaron Gordon and the curious case of Dante Exum take up all the space. Make no mistake, however. Whichever team gets Stokes will be getting a solid player who is ready to contribute right away.
Strengths
Stokes is remarkable at getting in the best position around the basket. Whether it’s for putbacks or rebounds- Stokes is a force. His base is firm and his technique is what many young players these days lack. Fundamental may not be a sexy word, but do you think Tim Duncan cares?
Jarnell averaged 10.6 boards per game to go with an impressive 53% from the field. His aggression and relentless nature of play mixed with being 6’8″ (7’1″ wingspan) make for a dangerous combination. Stokes is very team-oriented and not in it to pad his stats. His maturity is a plus and he is a high character type of player- something that cannot be overlooked if you are a general manager. Stokes is a superb finisher at the rim and a force in the post. While he may back you down to get his shot, don’t expect to do the same to him. The kid out of Memphis defends similarly to Zach Randolph. Sometimes he may be physical, but if anyone is afraid of a little contact then they are in the wrong sport. Stokes can also get to the line and shot a respectable 70% last season. Not bad for a four. He can also run well on fast breaks and has hands most big men would envy. He never takes plays off and lastly possesses a decent mid-range jumper. Stokes may not be a complete offensive weapon, but you’d be hardpressed to find a big man in this year’s draft who can have an effect on the whole game, regardless of the box score.
Weaknesses
Stokes has the fewest weaknesses of any player I have scouted for this year’s draft. That’s saying something. His size as a 4 in the NBA might leave a little to be desired. He would likely struggle to defend dynamic power forwards such as Blake Griffin and LaMarcus Aldridge due to his lack of lateral quickness. Granted, many veterans have trouble with that duo- but it would certainly be tougher for a rookie. Stokes is not a high volume scorer.
Verdict
Jarnell Stokes looks to be a pick teams will kick themselves for missing out on in a few years. There are many players this year with a lot of bark and little evidence of bite. Stokes will likely get passed over for those enigmas. I see him going in the latter stages of the first round (22-28). Even in the first round, I’d call him a steal in that range.
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