NBA Draft Scouting Report: NBL's AJ Johnson
AJ Johnson
Guard | NBL
Height: 6'5” | Weight: 165 lbs
2024 Draft Age: 19.55
Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images
Prospect Profile
Johnson was originally committed to Texas, set to make one of the more talented Big 12 teams even better in the upcoming season. However, he ended up de-committing and joining the Illawarra Hawks of the Australian NBL, which is the same team LaMelo Ball played for before being drafted.
Johnson is extremely skilled, but has a thin build and struggles with contact. However, he’s lightning quick and has good top speed which helps him be effective both in halfcourt situations and in transition. He leverages his speed and a collection of dribble moves to get to the rim with ease and isn’t afraid to go through the defender.
With the ability to create for himself, Johnson’s shot diet is vast and he’s one of the more crafty players in this class. He can shoot the ball well on the move or in spot-up situations and has a smooth jumper.
While Johnson is a solid passer and has lead guard skills, he can also be turnover prone. He also has times in which he tries to do too much and can negatively impact his team. Regardless, the upside on the offensive end is tremendous.
For Johnson, it will come down to his ability to make an impact on winning without the ball in his hands. He makes things happen as an initiator, but likely wont have the chance to be the primary scorer early in his professional career.
Defensively, he has the potential to be solid with his length and quickness, but he’ll need to get a lot stronger. That could be another swing skill for him. In the NBL against adults, he’ll have to grow up quickly. It will be a great opportunity to prove he’s NBA ready despite being slim.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Late First-Round Pick in 2024 NBA Draft.
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