Sacramento Kings: 3 Qualities To Like About Justin James
By Rafe Wong
Reason #2: Defensive Potential
During his tenure with Wyoming, James was adequate on the defensive side of the ball. Although he is nothing special now as an NBA player, there is potential for him to be a good defender if he makes strides.
In terms of measurements, James is an athletic guard who stands at 6’7″, weighs around 190 pounds, and has a wingspan of 6’8″. Pretty good length for someone who mainly plays the two.
With the combination of his length and athleticism, James has the capability to not only be a good defender in the NBA but a lockdown one. Yes, he will need to bulk up throughout time, but the potential is there if he is put in the right direction.
For the Kings, they need more competent defenders on their team, especially on the perimeter. And with the physical traits that James possesses, he for sure can help the Kings on that end of the floor.
Right now, it is a lot to ask of James to become a good defender straight out the gate. But I think he can be a defensive asset for the purple and white in the upcoming years.
One aspect that I do think James can make an impact right away is rebounding the basketball. Even as a two guard, James dominated the boards during his college days as he averaged a whopping nine rebounds per game in his senior year.