NBA Draft Spotlight: Keldon Johnson

Keldon Johnson has provided scoring punch for Kentucky all season long and remains the best long-term NBA prospect on the team.

Strengths:

• Very good athlete. Possesses plus speed, quickness, and strength for a two guard. Often goes into college games as the best athlete on the court
• Slashes to the rim where he is a relentless finisher. Constantly looking to get touches in the paint, whether it be off straight-line drives, quick dribbling moves, or getting out in transition
• Has really progressed as a shooter throughout the season. He steps into jumpers from mid-range and three-point range, elevating into a one-motion shot. There have been multiple games where he led Kentucky in three-point shooting
• Brings high-energy. His physical gifts definitely help, but he has the chance to be a plus NBA defender because of how hard he plays. It’s almost contagious how he competes, though he isn’t always the impact defender he has the potential to become
• Should become a more creative scorer in time. Right now he has a raw handle, but when he keeps his dribble tight, he can get into his mid-range game and beat defenders with his athletic ability

Weaknesses:

• A little bit of an underdeveloped handle. Limited to primarily crossovers and hesitations right now. Will become a better isolation scorer as his ball-handling progresses
• Loves to push the pace and get going in transition, which leads to some quick shots and turnovers. He can be too excitable, which should be correctable as he mature
• Defensive focus needs to improve throughout the game. Can be a victim of ball-watching, leading to defensive breakdowns
• Has shot the ball well all year, but he’s not a high volume three shooter. To really maximize his potential, he will need to be able to consistently knock down those open looks from deep

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