Julius Randle vs. Jabari Parker: NBA Draft Prospect Match Up
By Mike Garcia
There are two potential top-5 picks at the power forward slot in the upcoming draft. Those players are Julius Randle and Jabari Parker. While it can be argued that Parker is a small forward, he is more than a capable rebounder and has good moves in the post, which allows flexibility to play power forward at the next level. This is a comparison between both players.
Feb 22, 2014; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Julius Randle (30) reacts during the game against the LSU Tigers in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated LSU 77-76. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Julius is a 6’9″ (in shoes) power forward with a 6’11” wingspan playing the position in the traditional sense. He operates within the painted area. He’s big, he’s strong, and he has an unusually high level of energy for a bigman. Double-doubles for Randle come easily at the NCAA level. He’s averaging 15.7 points per game with 10.3 rebounds per game in 30 minutes of play.
Feb 20, 2014; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jabari Parker (1) warms up before the game. The Tar Heels defeated the Blue Devils 74-66 at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Jabari Parker, however, is a 6’8″ (in shoes) power forward with a 7′ wingspan. He is more of a new wave power forward, implementing guard-skills at a power position. His versatility has made him the most polished offensive player out of the NCAA. He averages 18.8 points per game and 8.9 rebounds per game in 30.2 minutes of play.