Rucker warns: “This guy is dangerous”

Jo Lual-Acuil Jr.’s signing has the potential to propel the Perth Wildcats toward “a deep post-season run,” according to Derek Rucker.

Returning to his home state after another successful stint overseas, the star big is, in Rucker’s view, primed for a huge year.

Rucker ranked ‘JLA’ at number eight in his highly anticipated Pre-Season Top 15.

“This guy is dangerous,” he said.

“There’s a reason why his services were requested all over the world. This is why the Perth Wildcats fought so hard to get him back.”

Rucker believes adding the All-NBL First Teamer and Champion, alongside G League star Mason Jones, has elevated the Wildcats to another level.

“One big movement changed the way the Perth Wildcats’ season looked and prospects for the Red Army,” Rucker said.

“This is a championship-level big man. A guy who is probably a second-tier MVP candidate, by default, but if his play improves he can be in the All-NBL First Team.

“He can put it on the floor. He can shoot the three. He is super-aggressive on the offensive end and a very underrated defender as well.

“It was a huge acquisition.”

Lual-Acuil Jr. joins Kristian Doolittle (12) in Rucker’s Top 15, with rankings 15 to 6 unveiled on Thursday.

Rucker’s top five will be revealed on Saturday via NBL.com.au and the NBL App.