Can JO be Robin Lopez for us?

Totally different players/styles/strengths. Even Phoenix (under Gentry) R-Lo

What I hope JO can be is a slightly better version of last years Al Jefferson

Indy found a way to minimize his weaknesses and maximize his strengths for a few minutes a half last year. He helped when he played, but in certain matchups, they gave him DNP's

Almost nothing like him either because of each's strengths and weaknesses

Jefferson and the Pacers worked when he was surrounded by smart frontline players (like Sabonis) and fast backcourt guys who could stay in front of their guy on the perimeter.

They also utilized guys who could attack the rim on offense so Jefferson could get offensive boards and putbacks when they missed. They also iso'ed Al quite a bit against second unit bigs.

It worked. It didn't change their season and they didn't utilize it in the playoffs. But he was a plus contributor for them in two different stretches in the season. If Jahlil does that, it helps keep minutes down for the main players and it gets you an extra win or two in the regular season. I think thats a realistic expectation to have for the guy if the coaching staff utilizes him properly. Which I think they will

I think itll help Jhalil playing next to someone like AD. When they are on the floor together, AD can make his defensive liabilities a lot less noticable. I think him and Randle can have a similar impact on the offensive end. (Obviously Randle is the main guy).