Ht/Wt: 6' 7" / 237 lbs
Position: SF
Team: Arizona
Class: Freshman

2015 Draft Profile - Stanley Johnson

Strengths
Johnson has a rare, but phenomenal blend of height, build, strength and athletic ability out on the wing. This combination gives him exceptional versatility, especially on defense where he can guard multiple positions. He's already an excellent defender and has the potential to be a lockdown defender in the NBA. He's a solid ball-handler for his size and position, which helps him be an absolute terror for opponents in transition. Coaches love him because of the pride he takes in his defense, his competitive drive and motor, plus his work ethic on and off the court, which Arizona head coach Sean Miller has raved about.

Offensively, Johnson still needs polishing, but has a good foundation to work with. At Arizona he's shot the ball well from the three point line after that aspect of his game was a major concern coming into college. He's able to create scoring opportunities for himself and teammates as well. When he goes to the basket, he looks to finish strong at the rim and typically succeeds. He's also doesn't let his size and strength go to waste on the glass, bringing strong rebounding production.

Weaknesses
Although Johnson has shot well from the perimeter in college, his jump shot still needs improvement in terms of mechanics, most notably the trajectory. He shoots a very flat shot, which could be problematic from the NBA three point line. Improving his technique could mean more consistency with his jumper, forcing defenses to respect it, thus opening up chances to drive to the basket.

Another area that could use some refinement is his decision making. Johnson often times will settle for poor shots that are contested well. He'll get into trouble at times by driving into traffic or getting himself in tough situations with the basketball, leading to some turnovers. Better decision making will make him far more valuable on offense, where he just needs more polish in general.

NBA Player Comparison
Johnson brings a unique overall skill set to the table, so it's difficult to say he's exactly like a certain player, but he's drawn comparisons to Metta World Peace, also known as Ron Artest. Johnson is a far better ball-handler and athlete than World Peace and can certainly create more on offense -- not to mention a personality contrast. However, they are both alike due to their size, strength and defensive tenacity. World Peace was able to get to the basket on drives by bullying his defender and Johnson has that same quality. While it's not a precise match, it's still a fair comparison.

Statistics
PPG: 14.6 RPG: 6.9 APG: 1.8 SPG: 1.5 BPG: 0.3 FG%: 46.9 FT%: 73.1 3PT%: 39.3

Stanley Johnson Videos

Arizona Wildcats: Stanley Johnson


Stanley Johnson - Arizona Highlights 2015


Stanley Johnson 2015 NBA Draft Scouting Video - Strengths


Stanley Johnson 2015 NBA Draft Scouting Video - Weaknesses


Stanley Johnson Arizona highlights





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