Could Stanley Johnson be what the doctor ordered for the Charlotte Hornets?
The Hornets seem to be keen on drafting the offensive-minded 19 year old player from Anaheim, California and his ability to light it up in any which way could be a big boost. And while he does seem like a complete package, his basketball IQ has been put into question.
However, one can only ask so much from any player, particularly a young 19 year old cager who loves to take the three point shot and provide some aerial repertoire which should make him one of the high scoring players should he adapt to the NBA culture.
Johnson has a tremendous leap and a nice touch. However it remains to be seen if he can translate all that talent against seasoned and bigger players in the big league. And apparently these are some apprehensions clouding his entry into the NBA, relegating him to the latter part of the first round and probably falling into the hands of the Bobcats unless some other team decides to suddenly draft him.
With a woeful season and an aging group, Johnson could be the future of the Bobcats. But in order for him to establish himself, he needs to improve and strengthen certain facets of his game, mostly on the mental side.
He has proven he can score and defend well, but can he outwit the seasoned veterans in the NBA? Expect the vets like Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson to provide him with some short lessons and if all goes well, the Bobcats could come out with an explosive player who could blend in well with other yuppies like Cody Zeller and Noah Vonleh.
Johnson was mentored before by former Lakers and Cavaliers coach Mike Brown and worked out with Kobe Bryant so more or less he knows what he lacks to make it big in the NBA. Hopefully he does just that; wherever he may eventually land.
