After attending the 2018 NBA Draft Combine, Jaylen Hands returned to UCLA for his sophomore year, where he broke out as the full time starter after Aaron Holiday’s departure. He averaged 14.2 PPG, 6.1 APG, 3.7 RPG, 1.3 SPG, and 3.2 TOPG on shooting splits of 41/37/78. Here is his full scouting report:
Name: Jaylen Hands
Height/Weight: 6’3/ 180
Wingspan/ standing reach: 6’5 ½ / 8’1
Hand size: 8.25
Position: G
College/ country: UCLA
Tools: Athleticism, shooting upside
Pros:
- Very quick- explosive and quick first step; can change speeds quickly
- Has NBA range on 3
- Quick recovery time on defense and covers lots of ground
- Excellent in transition
Cons:
- Low basketball IQ and low feel for the game- bad decision maker
- Needs to add strength- may help jump shot since form is top heavy
- Needs to improve shot form
- Short frame
Overall:
Jaylen Hands is a low floor/ high ceiling prospect with excellent athleticism and jump shooting potential. While Hands’ jump shot form needs refinement in order to become more consistent, he has shown the ability to shoot from deep NBA range and has no hesitation in doing so. That being said, his shot selection is poor, which largely has to do with the offensive system/coaching and his poor feel for the game. Hands often dribbles away from the basket, becomes predictable in attacking from the corner, which causes his questionable shot selection. While Hands was likely negatively impacted by the dysfunctional UCLA program, he has a long way to go in terms of developing a high level understanding of a fast paced game.
NBA Comparison: Floor: Markel Brown; Ceiling:Brandon Jennings
Projected draft range: 40- undrafted
Fit with Mavericks:
Jaylen Hands would be a poor fit in Dallas due to his low basketball IQ, concern in developing a threatening jump shot, and his overall raw talent. At best, he could be a two way candidate to be put in Frisco to develop for a year with the Legends. Hands only has a mild frame, but considering Rick Carlisle’s history with undersized point guards, Hands could make up for his lack of size somewhat easily. Defensively, Hands could be positive in that regard due to his quickness, recovery ability, and overall athleticism. Overall, Hands would be a risky get with the Mavericks given Carlisle’s history with low IQ and unsuccessful jump shooters in Dallas.
