On both sides of the court, the rookie is demonstrating his ability to hold his own.
Hello, is Trayce Jackson-Davis the 2023 draft steal? As the Golden State Warriors attempt to steal a postseason berth, the youthful big man is starting to emerge as a significant player.
Take a look at this: 17 players have worn the Warriors uniform and amassed at least 60 blocks in a season since the team’s dynasty began in the 2014–2015 championship season. With three blocks in his most recent game, Jackson-Davis now has 62 for the season. The odd thing is that in just 59 games, he has achieved that feat, tying Marquese Chriss for the fewest games played throughout the dynasty era.
TJD’s pick-and-roll finishing skills, self-assured ballhandling on dribble handoffs, and rim-rattling athleticism are somewhat reminiscent of Chriss. TJD is confidently finishing above the hoop and tenaciously defending against any attempted shots in the paint.
When he catches the ball falling towards the rim, Jackson-Davis demonstrates an extraordinary ability to employ timing, footwork, and patience. Speaking of that PNR finishing. He scored several times when the Hornets defense was out of position and there was just a space the size of a phone booth to maneuver. A GIANT MAN PLAYING BASKETBALL FROM THE ROOK! Similar to his father, Dale Davis!
Watching him operate around the elite basketball IQ of hall-of-fame point guards like Stephen Curry and Chris Paul is a true treat. They do what it takes to checkmate the defense into compromising positions, and Jackson-Davis is in the right place at the right time to punish the opposition for not accounting for him.
He’s also showing signs of a passing game as a secondary ball handler out of the PNR that can find cutting teammates or shooters in the corner. Keep it up young fella, the sky is the limit for a Warrior big man who can play within the system.