Oct 21, 2015; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward
Stanley Johnson(3) brings the ball up court against the Charlotte Hornets during the second quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
4. Stanley Johnson, Detroit Pistons
6-foot-7, 245 lbs
University of Arizona
People accused the Pistons of failing miserably on their draft pick when they selected Stanley Johnson over Justise Winslow. The first returns show that the Pistons chose wisely. Johnson has been a revelation for the Pistons.
Oct 23, 2015; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Stanley Johnson (3) makes a dunk over Atlanta Hawks forward
Mike Muscala(31) during the third quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Pistons win 115-87. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
His outside jump shot has been more consistent than everyone thought it could be. He averaged 16.2 PPG in the Orlando Summer League and thoroughly outplayed Winslow, who he’s probably going to be compared to for the rest of his career.
His relentless aggression and physicality translate to the NBA game right away. His tenaciousness brings back memories of Ron Artest at his best; not Metta World Peace or the Ron Artest Shenanigans. He shows the capability to defend up to four positions and he figures to earn a ton of playing time under Stan Van Gundy.
Van Gundy loves the toughness and skill-set that Johnson has and he is an absolutely a dark horse candidate for Rookie of the Year. The Pistons do not look to have a highly successful year, so getting Johnson playing time immediately is the best idea for all parties.
The 19-year-old has an NBA ready physicality and, if his skills can progress and he can become a legitimate 3-point threat, he could become one of the best players out of this draft class.
Detroit loves blue-collar work ethics and players and he fits that mold to a tee. Sure, they may regret passing on Justise Winslow at some point, but for now the Pistons brass have to be thrilled with what Johnson has showcased thus far.
Next: No. 3