Trace Jackson-Davis: The NBA’s Most Underrated Rookie

Trace Jackson-Davis, a rookie drafted by the Golden State Warriors with the 57th overall pick in 2023, is emerging as a surprising force on the court. With his impressive defensive plays and consistent scoring, Jackson-Davis has showcased his potential to become a valuable asset in the NBA. Despite his relatively low draft position and being 24 years old—a bit older than many first- and second-year players—his maturity and skill set are proving to be game-changers for the Warriors.

Making an Immediate Impact

Jackson-Davis is not a name commonly discussed among NBA rookies. He lacks the hype of younger players who enter the league at 18 or 19 years old. However, his age is proving to be an advantage, as he possesses a level of maturity and understanding of the game that is uncommon among new players. In one of his standout performances against the Milwaukee Bucks, Jackson-Davis scored 15 points, grabbed six rebounds, and blocked three shots, including two blocks on Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP. Not many rookies can boast about blocking Giannis, let alone doing it twice in the same game.

In less than 20 minutes of play, Jackson-Davis delivered an impressive 88% shooting percentage. This level of efficiency in limited game time speaks volumes about his ability to make a significant impact, even when he doesn’t play extended minutes. These skills, combined with his confidence and composure on the court, indicate that he has the potential to develop into a major contributor in the NBA.

A Versatile Skill Set

Unlike many other young big men, Jackson-Davis is more than just an athletic player. He has demonstrated impressive passing abilities, often operating effectively in the short pick-and-roll situations. His court vision allows him to make quick decisions and find open teammates, making him an ideal fit for the Warriors’ style of play. This passing ability was a significant factor in the Warriors’ decision to draft him, as he provides another layer of playmaking to complement veterans like Draymond Green.

Offensively, Jackson-Davis is a versatile scorer. In college, he averaged 20 points and ten rebounds per game, showing his proficiency both in the post and in transition. His game extends beyond being just a lob threat; he possesses a soft touch around the basket, can handle the ball, and has a knack for finding creative ways to score. Plays like his soft hook shots against seasoned defenders like Al Horford demonstrate that his scoring potential is vast.

Comparisons to NBA Veterans

Jackson-Davis’s defensive prowess has earned him comparisons to NBA veteran Blake Griffin. Griffin, known for his ability to defend strong forwards, had success in guarding top players due to his combination of size, strength, and agility. Similarly, Jackson-Davis has shown that he can hold his own against some of the league’s top talent. By studying players like Griffin, Jackson-Davis has refined his defensive game, which allows him to anticipate opponents’ moves and react accordingly.

It’s clear that Jackson-Davis is a student of the game. After his performance against Milwaukee, he noted how watching Griffin defend Giannis helped him develop strategies for guarding the league’s elite forwards. This level of preparation is rare in a rookie and demonstrates his commitment to improving his game. Warriors’ forward Draymond Green praised Jackson-Davis’s defensive instincts, particularly his ability to read and react to plays on the fly.

Underrated but Unstoppable

Despite his strong start, Jackson-Davis remains underrated by many NBA fans. His consistent performances and versatile skill set suggest that he has the potential to exceed expectations and become a significant contributor to the Warriors’ success. He has shown that he can adapt to the NBA’s pace and physicality, which should only improve as he gains more experience.

In the second half of the season, Jackson-Davis saw increased playing time, averaging over nine points, nearly six rebounds, and more than a block per game. He established himself as a reliable rotation player, offering valuable contributions on both ends of the court. His ability to score, defend, and pass makes him a well-rounded player with the potential to develop into a starting role.

Building on a Strong Foundation

One of Jackson-Davis’s most promising attributes is his willingness to do the “little things” that contribute to winning basketball. Unlike former Warriors center James Wiseman, who struggled with the nuances of positioning and setting screens, Jackson-Davis excels in these areas. His understanding of positioning on defense, his ability to set effective screens, and his quick decision-making make him an asset to the Warriors’ system.

Warriors fans have reason to be excited about Jackson-Davis’s future. He has the potential to become more than just a rotation player; he could develop into a key piece of the Warriors’ frontcourt. If given the opportunity to continue honing his playmaking and scoring abilities, he could become a valuable contributor and even a starter in the coming seasons.

A Bright Future Ahead

The NBA is filled with players who enter the league with immense potential but struggle to develop into reliable contributors. However, Jackson-Davis’s skills and maturity suggest that he is on a different trajectory. His ability to make an impact as a rookie, combined with his work ethic and commitment to improvement, point to a bright future. The Warriors have found a gem in the 57th pick, and if he continues on his current path, Jackson-Davis could become one of the league’s best value picks.