Sacramento Kings: Why Does Justin Jackson Deserve The Starter Role Over Iman Shumpert?
Image Source: Associated Press
Iman Shumpert has been the glue keeping the Sacramento Kings together. This doesn’t mean he should be starting at SF. Justin Jackson makes a valid case for starters minutes. He’s made a lot of strides this season. Dave Joerger should pull the trigger on Jackson. Not only as a starter but during crucial game moments.
Jackson, a 2nd-year forward from The University of North Carolina, might not have jaw-dropping stats, yet, his impact has been felt on the team. This is similar to the game of Shumpert, who relies on defense to keep him on the court. Jackson, an emerging defender himself, might be the more intriguing option.
Jackson has gained the trust of Coach Joerger. He’s played some crucial 4th quarter minutes, and it’s not just because of his defense. On the season, (All game statistics taken up to January 14th) Jackson shoots .481 during the 4th quarter. On the other hand, Shumpert shoots .600 during the same 4th quarter. What that failed to show was the volume of shots between the two.
During just the 4th quarter, Shumpert has only taken 25 shots. Meanwhile, Jackson has taken 79. The shot differential is quite large. If you’re Jackson and shoot an impressive. 481 over the 4th with that number of shots, that’s a pretty nice number.
Here’s the kicker, Jackson shoots .393 when the lead is under 5 points. Shumpert only shoots the ball at a .379 rate over that differential. This is a very telling stat, as a lot of the Kings games have been nailbiters. In addition, Shumpert isn’t a very disciplined shooter. He’ll jack up just about any shot.
Why does Jackson deserve a starters role? Jackson shoots .441 during the opening quarter. Shumpert only shoots .358. What’s more astonishing is Shump’s taken 108 shots during the 1st. Although, what do you lose on defense if he’s not playing the 4th and matching up against the team’s best player at the beginning of the contest?
The Kings still need Shumpert’s defense. The sole reason he’s playing 4th quarter getting starter minutes is his D. If (and that’s a big If) a player on the other team proves to be too much for Jackson or the team to handle, it’s at that point you send Shumpert into the game. You’ll just instruct him not to shoot the ball. Again, shot selection from Shumpert can be quite disastrous.
Although, I’d still not count out Jackson on defense. That’s been a big part of his confidence boost. He’s playing much improved D. Over the last 8 games for the Sacramento Kings, Jackson has a 99 Defensive rating. That’s good for 2nd on the team. If you’re Dave Joerger, think twice about leaving Jackson on the bench in favor of Shumpert.
What does Justin Jackson bring to the table? He’s an efficient scorer in crunch time and plays solid defense. Shumpert might be the veteran, although, this shouldn’t mean he’s the answer as the Sacramento Kings starter and closer. Jackson has earned himself the minutes. Dave Joerger needs to give them to him.
Daniel is a guru of baseball and basketball prospects. He’s a very experienced Amusement Park traveler as well. Follow him and his hot takes on Insta @dgentleman9288
