Keon Johnson has landed with the Los Angeles Clippers. The Knicks, who were picking for the Clippers after a trade, selected the former five-star prospect in the first round with the 21st pick.
Clippers will send No. 25 to New York and a future second, per source. Clippers are targeting Keon Johnson at No. 21. https://t.co/FRWvThyVpM
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 30, 2021
Johnson averaged 11.3 points per game last season for Tennessee. He shot 44 percent from the field, but connected on just 27 percent of his three-point attempts. He made a big impact right off the bat on the defensive end, really shining in one on one moments. That intensity and effort gives him somewhat of a high floor at the next level, at the very least providing some value on one end of the floor.
The Clippers are obviously hoping to develop Johnson on the offensive end, but again, questions with his shooting will linger. Johnson has shown plenty of ability to finish at the rim, which includes a little bit of ability in the post.
Johnson’s elite athletic ability is worth the gamble at this point, however. Johnson shattered the all time max vertical leap record, hitting 48 inches on his jump. He instantly becomes one of the best athletes in the league, and now just needs some seasoning.
Per our own scouting report, Johnson’s athletic ability comes with plenty of questions — mainly surrounding his ability to develop as a shooter.
“Keon’s a tough prospect to project because we’re unsure how his shot develops, despite what appears to be a good foundation, and if his frame can handle the grind of an NBA season,” Nick Carner said. “In most circles, he’s seen as a high-risk, high-reward player due to his poor 3-point shooting percentage and subsequent fear that it won’t improve.”
Read the full scouting report here.
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