The Miami Heat are bringing in fresh young talent into their storied development system. Outside of their notable first-round draft pick of Kel’el Ware, the Heat have high hopes for another pair of rookies: Second-round pick Pelle Larsson and undrafted free agent Keshad Johnson.
Larsson and Johnson, who played together at Arizona last season, are going to be hungry to earn coach Erik Spoelstra’s trust. But their former college head coach Tommy Lloyd recently spoke to the Miami Herald about what they could bring to Miami:
"“I think one of the things that makes them impressive prospects is they’re both wired and willing to be great role players. 100 percent of their focus is going to be contributing to the team’s overall success.""
Heat rookies Pelle Larsson and Keshad Johnson are embracing Heat Culture early.
They both showcased exactly what Lloyd is referring to during the Heat’s undefeated summer league championship run. Larsson stepped up in crucial moments to hit some clutch buckets and looked intriguing as another sharpshooter option. Johnson displayed a Swiss Army knife type of versatility, being able to play and defend multiple positions at a high level.
Larsson should look to fill a similar Duncan Robinson/Max Strus type of mold in the Heat’s system. He can shoot the ball efficiently, especially as a catch-and-shoot threat. However, he displays more defensive upside than the likes of Robinson and Strus. At 6-foot-5 and around a 6-foot-7 wingspan, he has the physical attributes to be a plus defender.
On draft night, experts referred to Larsson as a “skilled, smooth and versatile” prospect who has an impressive, natural feel for the game.
At 6-foot-7, Johnson possesses an intriguing combination of size and athleticism. He has more raw potential out of the two players, but he was nothing short of impressive as a high-energy role player throughout the summer league. His best skills come as a defensive minded hybrid forward. He was active in sliding his feet, getting in passing lines and taking advantage of his size on that end of the floor.
When it comes to roster placement, Larsson is already on the 15-man roster on a rookie deal. Johnson, on the other hand, will be looking to earn an opportunity as a two-way player on the team. He will head into training camp as the third player on a two-way contract, along with Dru Smith and Josh Christopher.
If their old coach’s comments provide any reassurance about what these two can bring, it’s that the Heat’s scouting department may have once again found exactly what they are looking for.