#00 Rick Jackson 2010-11 Outlook

I am going to post my scouting reports in numerical order.

#00 RICK JACKSON (Senior, 6-9, 240)

Positives:
Rick has become an accomplished low post player for the Orange. He has developed several low post offensive moves, his most effective and consistent being a baby hook. Defenders seem to not realize Rick is left handed and this causes them difficulty when guarding him. Defensively, Rick has developed into a very good rebounder and defender in the 2-3 zone.

Development through his career:
Like many big men before him, Rick has developed a great deal during his time at Syracuse University. During his first two seasons he did not do a great job of keeping the ball high. Many times this would lead to strips and turnovers. His offensive game was non-existent before the 09-10 season. Rick has become more aggressive on both ends of the floor. This has led to more rebounds and points. It has also led to numerous dunks. Before this year he rarely tried to dunk the ball even when he was wide open.

Areas in need of improvement:
Rick needs to be more consistent when grabbing rebounds and passes. There are times when he fumbles the ball out of bounds or to a defender when he would have an easy rebound or basket. Leaving his feet because of a ball fake also is one of Rick’s weaknesses. This leads to some fouls that could and should be avoided.

2009-10 statistics:
9.7pts/7reb/1.7a /2blk/1stl

2010-11 predictions:
While a lot can change between now and next season, I believe Rick will put up very similar numbers. If he improves his hands and is more disciplined on defense, I can see him putting up a line like this 11pts/8reb/2a /2blk/1stl. Everything depends on how often he is the only interior force on the court. His numbers could be even better if Melo, Riley, etc… develop as offensive players.