As the 2021 NBA draft approaches, Jalen Johnson is regarded as a potential lottery selection.
Johnson played one season at Duke and averaged 11.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.2 blocks, 1.2 steals and 21.4 minutes per game. He converted on 52.3% of his shots on 8.4 attempts and 44.4% from deep on 1.4 attempts.
The 6-foot-9 forward could be a top-10 selection depending how the Orlando Magic, Oklahoma City Thunder and Sacramento Kings view him; all three teams could use more wing depth.
Johnson’s assist numbers are low on paper, but his passing vision and ability to deliver accurate passes are exquisite for his position. Going into the NBA, he’ll need to answer questions about his free-throw and 3-point shooting, as he struggled or didn’t shoot many of each.
During a recent press conference with the media, Johnson discussed who in the NBA he looks up to and tries to model his game after, via Ben Baer of NBA.com:
“LeBron James for sure. Just with everything he does on the court, the way he communicates, the way he leads, his IQ.”
With the playmaking skills Johnson has displayed, he could help a team as a de facto point guard, similar to how LeBron James has operated throughout his career.
But Johnson will need to polish his overall defense and stay locked in, especially off the ball. And as mentioned, he must improve his ability to create and knock down shots on high volume.
Johnson will turn 20 in December, which is why his upside intrigues teams around the league. However, he might not be available at No. 22, which is when the Los Angeles Lakers are slated to make their pick.
The draft will commence on July 29.
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