Trey Johnson

by Zack Vank on May 29, 2007 4:03 PM PDT

This guy currently isn't projected to be drafted at nbadraft.net, but his name is kicking around on some ESPN lists. Played at mid-major Jackson State, a 6-5 guard who can shoot and score from anywhere. While it's generally accepted that we need rebounding help, with the possible departures of Pietrus and Barnes, and the injury worries around Baron and Richardson, depth at the guard spots could disappear in a hurry. The few articles and clips I've seen of Johnson make him sound mighty enticing, his final college game being an opening round loss to the Gators in the tourney. Important to note, though, is that he still scored over 20 points and distributed the ball nicely with 5 assists against wat is known as a stifling Florida defense. He also stated that the Jackson State offense was not a strict playcalling offense, rather, that it was based heavily on cuts and motion, and making smart passes. That sounds suspiciously similar to the sort of system Don Nelson would like to operate.

Obviously, if there's a quality big man, you have to snatch him, but if Johnson is still around at our second pick, I'd sure like to take him.

This FanPost is a submission from a member of the mighty Golden State of Mind community. While we're all here to throw up that W, these words do not necessarily reflect the views of the GSoM Crew. Still, chances are the preceding post is Unstoppable Baby!

Tweet Comment 5 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

Trey Johnson

Easy to imagine a guy named Trey Johnson playing for a perimeter oriented team like the Warriors. Gotta wonder if Nellie/Mullin work him out on his first name alone.

Not sure what to say except that I haven't seen TJ play. He seems reasonably skilled, intelligent and motivated, so I think you have to at least take a flyer on him. One thing that stood out in his draftexpress profile is that he seems dedicated to improving his game and has a good attitude.

It sounds like Johnson's a gifted athlete, but I wonder if he really excels at any skill enough to be considered a "diamond in the rough" sort of talent in the 2nd round. While the Brandon Roy comparisons are nice, it seems more reasonable to project Johnson as a valuable reserve type (Kelenna Azibuike?) rather than a starter.

Johnson has played well against some good teams (Florida) and players (Corey Brewer) so that should help his draft stock. I wouldn't be surprised if this kid ends up helping some team out.

by Byron Houston We Have A Problem on May 29, 2007 5:55 PM PDT reply actions

TJ

I saw this kid play a couple times when i was in New Orleans, and I really love his game. The guy has a great shot, but he is also a gamer. In the games I saw him play (remember this wasn't against the best competition), he seemed to always come up with the big shot or a nice dish. He would be a great fit, and I would love to see him play for us. The Azubukie comparisons are warranted, however Johnson is a much better shooter, and also seems tougher, or he has more heart. He is a tireless worker, and a perfect fit.

by dnalvare on May 29, 2007 6:02 PM PDT reply actions

Johnson

Seems like he's relatively new to basketball, since draftexpress says that he played baseball most of his life until he tore some arm ligaments. Doesn't seem to affect his scoring ability though. I like his dedication and how he studied the game when he switched over. I haven't seen him play, but the only knock on him is that he doesn't seem to defend very well on iso plays and on the perimeter. If he can work on his D, he could be a gem as a 2nd rounder.

by Caught Backcourt on May 29, 2007 6:32 PM PDT reply actions

id say hes worth a 2nd rounder

the knock on him is lack of play against strong competition, not D. very few college players come out of college with a good defensive game, unless they were drafted to be defensive stoppers (some gaurd from washington was a high 2nd round pick for his D last year. of course, the knock on carney last year was his competition, and he turned out to be a bit of a steal. the only chance players get from mid majors to shine is in the tourney, but since he opened against florida he didnt have much of a chance. id loke to go him a go

by mydedgerbil555 on May 29, 2007 8:10 PM PDT reply actions

He's a legit player

Heard about him a bit last year, so I checked him out when I could this year. Great stroke and good feel for the game- would be a great 2nd round pick if Big Baby isn't around

by dprodigy19 on Jun 5, 2007 1:33 PM PDT reply actions