Coming into the year, there was some doubt about who would be the No. 1 overall pick. Jaylen Wells certainly isn’t a guy that I would consider in the Top 10, but he is an intriguing Small Forward in this year’s draft. He has the tools to be an elite offensive small forward, including size, physicality and scoring ability.
You can check out some of our other NBA Draft Profiles here: We have completed players like Donovan Clingan, Alex Sarr, Stephon Castle and more.
Height: 6’6.5″ (6’7.25″ wingspan, 8′7.5″ standing reach)
Weight: 206 lbs
Age: 20.8 years old
Position: Small Forward
Strengths
Scoring Threat
Wells can shoot at a high level. That much is known with his quick release. During his time at Washington State, Wells shot 42% on catch-and-shoot triples, converted 81% of his free throw attempts this past season. Not to mention, he also shot 44% from beyond the arc during his time at Sonoma State. He’s been on a positive trajectory dating back to his high school days.
Potential
I don’t think that Jaylen Wells is done growing as a player. If he can learn to drive a little more and play better on defense… then Wells certainly could be a great player in the NBA. I could say a lot about his potential, but with the fact that he went from high school to Division II to Division I. That says a lot, not many players who play at the D2 level get to this point. Wells is going to improve on a season-by-season basis.
Weaknesses
Overuse of Hands on Defense
Wells has shown the ability to contain drivers by using his chest and upper-body strength to hold his own against difficult matchups. However, he struggles with his footwork at times which causes him to use his hands. By doing that, he either gives up a lane or commits a foul. If he is playing off-ball defense, he can occasionally be seen checking out.
Ability to Drive to the Basket
I mentioned that Jaylen Wells could be a great offensive player in the NBA based on his ability to shoot and his potential. As a small forward, he should be able to drive to the basket and score at the rim. Though, that’s one of the areas where Wells struggles. He doesn’t do well when he faces pressure. At times, he has a loose handle. He doesn’t take many shots at the rim. NBA teams may want to see that more. Being able to take drives to the rim or off the pick-and-roll, rather than settling for floaters, will continue to open up his game at the next level.
Wells is projected to go in mid to late second round.
NBA Comparison: Ducan Robinson/Cameron Payne
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