Big Ten Tournament: 5 prospects the Detroit Pistons should watch

Jalen Smith, Sophomore, Maryland

Despite breaking out in the NCAA Tournament last season, Jalen Smith elected not to attend the NBA combine, unlike other Maryland standouts Bruno Fernando and Kevin Huerter. With Fernando and Huerter now in the NBA, Smith has taken on full ownership over Maryland’s destiny.

Enjoying his leadership role, Smith has improved in almost every statistical category. He is averaging 15.5 points per game, 10.5 rebounds per game, and shooting 53.8 percent from the field.

Smith’s perimeter shooting has also drastically improved as he has shown the ability to step out and hit big shots. He is shooting 36.8 percent from three and 75 percent from the free throw line, both impressive for the young big man.

Smith’s biggest asset is his 6’10”, 225lb frame. He is a fluid athlete with a much improved motor. He puts his length to use on the defensive glass and is not afraid to erase a few shots, as many noted during Maryland’s battle versus LSU is last season’s NCAA tournament.

Although Smith’s fiery game passes the eye test immediately, there are still some holes to be filled.

His low post game is subpar and he still hasn’t shown the ability to create his own shot. This may be due to lack of opportunity due to Maryland’s strong guard play, but Smith will need to showcase improved skills on these fronts during March.

Smith’s situation lines up almost exactly with the previously mentioned Oturu of Minnesota. Mock drafts have Smith pegged as a late first-round pick, but he could continue to rise during postseason play and draft workouts.

For the Detroit Pistons, it would make little sense to draft Smith with their high draft pick and it may take too many assets to pry the rights to him away from a team in the back of the first-round. Don’t be surprised to see Smith land with one of the contenders in the East such as the Celtics, Raptors, or Bucks.