Jarace Walker 2023 NBA Draft profile: How can Mavericks land the defensive star?

Jarace Walker's strengths

Jarace Walker is a unique prospect that provides the skills that Dallas needs. Here are two of his best observed from a breakdown of his film.

1. Defense

Walker is an impactful defender that can anchor a unit at the power forward position.

Standing at 6'8 and weighing over 240 pounds, Walker has a humongous frame. He isn't easily moved in the low post, and he uses his 7'2 wingspan to disrupt shots.

Walker averaged 1.3 blocks per game last season and a large portion of these came from the help side. He uses great timing to meet players at the rim and is fearless when going for rejections. He also anticipates the location of passes well and rotates at the perfect time.

The 19-year-old is also a strong on-ball defender. He can effectively guard bigs and does a solid job when switching in the pick and roll. He sometimes got blown by, but the skills are there. Walker is strong and is not easily backed down.

Walker is physical and uses his body well to prevent drives and stay in front of his man.

2. Playmaking potential

Walker is one of the best playmakers at the power forward position in this draft class. He has phenomenal vision and creativity when finding his teammates and will fit right in at the NBA level as he will be surrounded by shooters.

Last season at Houston, we saw Walker pull out behind-the-back, no-look, and touch passes out of his bag efficiently and comfortably. Once he gets the ball as the roller in the pick and roll, he makes good decisions as he knows when to go score and when to find a teammate.

He is also a solid playmaker in transition. Walker is selfless when attacking the basket and makes great dump-off and shovel passes. His ability to handle the ball and pass will make him an excellent fit in any NBA offense at the four.