The 2023 NBA draft was one of the most anticipated in years. France’s Victor Wembanyama was the biggest name to be called on draft night, but the lottery was full of stars. From the G League’s Scoot Henderson, college’s Brandon Miller, and the OTEs Amen Thompson and Ausar Thompson, the stars of the draft came from everywhere. One place you never expect a top rookie to come from is the second round. The 2023 NBA draft had some standouts from the second round who kept their names on people’s minds. So, how will these second-round standouts perform next season?
NBA Second-Round Standouts, How Will They Perform Next Season?
Can GG Jackson II Help The Grizzlies Win Now?
Most expected GG Jackson II to go in the first round of the draft, but somehow, he fell to the Grizzlies at pick number 45. Like most second-round picks, Jackson II could barely see the court over his first 36 games, playing a combined 18 minutes over the opening stretch. Once it was clear Memphis’ season was over, Jackson II got an opportunity to play real minutes. He seized the opportunity, making a name for himself by becoming the third youngest player to score 20 points in back-to-back games. Jackson II ended the season averaging 20 points over the last 18 games, including a 44-point bomb in the last game of the regular season.
The Grizzlies should be healthy entering next season and are looking to return to the top of the Western Conference. Jackson II will have to adjust to a new role with a healthy team next season. He showed a remarkable ability to play alongside higher-usage players last season before injuries decimated the roster. Jackson II can slot into any lineup with his size and shooting touch from three. Jackson II can provide supplementary shot-making and ball-handling off the bench when needed. His role will be different, but Jackson II should be a vital part of the rotation.
What Golden State Needs
The Golden State Warriors might have gotten the steal of the draft with the second-to-last pick. Trayce Jackson-Davis was by far one of the most impactful rookies, according to advanced stats. With Jackson-Davis in the starting lineup, the Warriors went 10-6, including going 9-2 in their last 11 games with him starting. With Kevon Looney becoming unplayable by the end of last season, Jackson-Davis has been able to replace much of what Looney did so well. Jackson-Davis provides tools the Warriors have been lacking for a while. He is a vertical threat on both ends of the court, swatting shots on defense and finishing above the rim on offense.
The Warriors are in an interesting position entering next season. Although they have been unable to add a star to their roster so far this offseason, they still have Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. The Warriors will be competitive next season, and Jackson-Davis is ready to help them compete immediately. He worked perfectly in the starting lineup last season alongside Green and Curry. He might have yet to lock up the job for next season, but he is the front-runner for the starting five spot on opening night.
