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RSCI’s (Recruiting Service Consensus Index) 210th ranked prospect spent the past season in the Overtime Elite League where he struggled managing just under 7 points a game on 50% true shooting. But, following an offseason of hard work Jaylen Martin has flourished into a highly efficient high scoring machine putting up gaudy numbers this season. In just 23 minutes a night through the OTE preseason and regular season Martin is currently averaging 17.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.7 steals a game on a ridiculously efficient 65.5 TS%.

Scoring Onslaught

On the offensive end Martin’s at his best attacking the basket where his touch around the rim and comfort both initiating and playing through contact lead to high percentage looks and frequent trips to the foul line. These drives to the rim become especially potent when Jaylin’s given a chance to attack an already scrambling defense as a secondary creator. His collection of 1st level counters allow him to easily outmaneuver defenders on the closeout. While he’s still learning how to beat 2nd level defenders, he’s already shown growth in that area too using creative gathers to keep the ball safe on his way to the basket.

This past season Jaylen was a dismal 26.9% from 3-point range and 54.5% from the free throw line. However, this season he’s refined his mechanics and is currently hitting on 37.5% of his looks from deep and 71.4% of his attempts at the free throw line. This is likely a benefit of the OTE players work with former NBA sharpshooter Mike Miller over this past summer. Jaylen’s coaches clearly have confidence in his shot often scheming up plays to get him open 3’s off movement which he seems comfortable taking.

Defensive Intensity

On the defensive end Martin’s intelligent decision making, relentless motor, and good size for a guard make him a highly effective defender at times. Like most 18-year-olds there are certainly lapses and while his active hands and high motor have benefited him so far leading to high steal numbers he does overhelp at times and often ignores his man in-favor of trying for steals.

That being said, Jaylen certainly takes pride in his defensive effort and has been a massive positive on that end early on in the OTE season. Often diving for loose balls and pushing the teams offense in transition off the back of his frequent steals and defensive rebounds.

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