Mar 26, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Stanley Johnson (5) reacts against Xavier Musketeers during the second half in the semifinals of the west regional of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Stanley Johnson
By Kristopher Keaton (@kris_world)
Stanley Johnson, out of the University of Arizona, is one of the more intriguing prospects in the 2015 NBA Draft. He would serve as a perfect fit if he is able to fall to the Heat around the 10th pick come June.
A physically imposing freshman (6’8, 240 pounds), Johnson posted numbers of 13.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, while shooting 44% FG, 37% 3FG, 74% FT. Very impressive and solid numbers for a kid thrown right into the fire at a power program.
His strengths include getting to the basket, with a pretty nice first step and being able to finish with contact due to his 240 pound frame. His quickness and length (6’11 1/2″ inches on his wingspan) make him a capable defender of shooting guards, small forwards, and potentially some power forwards at the next level.
Things that need improvement will be his ball handling, as he will be asked to create his own shot from time to time, as well as his long range shooting. Spacing is paramount in the NBA, and if the Heat are going to continue to rely on Dwyane Wade, they are going to need someone on the wing who can knock down long distance shots consistently. Johnson made 37% of his three-point shots last year, but he only attempted 111 with a shorter line than the NBA has.
Loul Deng did fairly well at times with the Heat, but as the transition into the future continues, I believe it’s time to look toward the future at the small forward position. James Ennis has potential, but Stanley Johnson has the potential to be an perennial all-star. The tape doesn’t lie:
Here’s to hoping he’s still available when it’s time for the Heat to pick.
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