Rick Jackson

Rick Jackson

Jackson came back from Europe to spend last year in the D-League, putting up 10.8 points and 9.9 rebounds per game in only 25 mpg for the Austin Toros. The per-minute rebounding accords with what we know - Jackson gets boards, and always has done. The offense is still limited, greatly hindered by the 44% free throw shooting that makes him a liability; however, this one big flaw excepted, Jackson is solid.

This is not the Syracuse team of last season. They've lost a lot in the last couple of years, and while outgoing talent has been replaced with incoming talent, the current lineup is pretty young and streaky. The headlining senior and lead guitarist is power forward Rick Jackson, an automatic double double this season. Jackson posts 10.6 rebounds per game despite completing about five box-outs all season, and posts 13.0 points per game despite no jumpshot, little athleticism, not great hands, and a paltry 51% mark from the line. These are both to his credit - even though he's largely freeroaming on the glass, Jackson reads the boards well, fights hard, demonstrates good timing, and has enough strength to fight for any loose balls. He also has developed some footwork and interior moves offensively, and has some touch, albeit only with his left hand. Additionally, Jackson posts a mighty fine 3.8 stocks (steals + blocks combined) per game, the anchor of a pretty good incarnation of the Syracuse defense, and has improved his passing, patience and vision in his four seasons.