3 NBA Draft Prospects The Memphis Grizzlies Could Select To Pair With Jaren Jackson Jr.
By Chris Kern
Keldon Johnson
Keldon Johnson might not have the pure talent and athleticism that some of the other top draft prospects have but he will be a better pro than many of them for a few reasons.
His ability to score the ball from anywhere makes him so difficult to defend. He can finish around the rim well to go along with a really good jump shot.
He is projected to go 7th overall according to Uproxx which would be right in the area that Memphis would be selecting.
Through the first 12 games of the season, he is averaging 16.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. He is doing that on 54% shooting from the field and 43% from three-point range.
He has the length to become a good defender at the next level but could struggle to stay in front of smaller, quicker guards.
Johnson has performed well in big games this season scoring 23 in both the Duke and North Carolina games. They went 1-1 in those two with a win over UNC.
He also made this insane half-court shot to force overtime against Seton Hall. He finished with 12 points but he was able to add this to his highlight reel.
Depending on what the Grizzlies plans are for next season he could fit in with a lot of their current players before taking on a large role after spending time alongside Mike Conley.
He could play both wing positions though he is deal position is likely the shooting guard spot. With Anderson locked in as the small forward of the future that won’t be an issue.