2019 NBA Draft: Full Mock Draft 2.0 – Pelicans take Zion; who goes next?

(Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
(Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
14 of 31
Next
New Orleans Pelicans NBA Draft
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

#13. Miami Heat: Keldon Johnson, F

School: Kentucky | Class: Freshman | Height: 6’6″ | Weight: 211 | Age: 19

Keldon Johnson dazzled in his lone year at the University of Kentucky. This past season, he compiled averages of 13.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists on 46 percent from the field and 38 percent from distance.

He’s a physical guard, standing in at 6’6″ and weighing 211 pounds. Using his power and athleticism, he often looks to attack the hoop with vigor. Likewise, he can knock down shots from the perimeter when left uncovered. He also has the ability to post up smaller guards given his size and can knock down turnaround jumpers.

However, he does come with some cons. Johnson is inconsistent, which is not out of the norm for freshmen in college. He often forces the issue, which either results in a bad look or a turnover. That is likely to change in his maturation process and should not be the main deterrent as to why an organization passes on him.

His combination of athleticism and finesse should not be overlooked. He has a tremendous upside which fits the direction of today’s NBA. He can finish at the rim, either by taking it all the way or putting up a floater with a soft touch. He can knock down perimeter shots and be implemented as a “3 and D” type of player.

Johnson could provide an interesting dynamic with the likes of Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow. Just don’t expect him to fill the massive void that Dwyane Wade left when he retired.

– Nolan Jensen (@NolanJensen_)