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Keldon Johnson has been projected anywhere between the late lottery and mid-20’s, depending on which mock NBA Draft you read.
Lately, both PJ Washington and Tyler Herro have been trending up while we have not heard much about Johnson’s destination. As of Monday, it now seems his stock is on the rise as well.
Keldon Johnson (Kentucky) is a player #Pacers hoped to interview at predraft camp and work out. Neither happened, according to Player Personnel Director Ryan Carr. I’m told Johnson, who has gotten high marks from many during this process in my convos, won’t be on the board at 18
— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) June 17, 2019
Many have believed that the Indiana Pacers would be interested in Johnson at the No. 18 slot. But according to J. Michael of the Indy star, Pacers management decided not to host Keldon for a workout because they believe he will no longer be available at No. 18.
Perhaps the Detroit Pistons have decided that Johnson is their guy at No. 15 if he is still available. That is the highest slot where he name has been mentioned in recent weeks.
However, it is not a stretch to believe that he could get his name called a pick or two earlier and find his way into the lottery.
Johnson averaged 13.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game in his freshman campaign at Kentucky. He also shot over 38% from deep, which was an area many scouts doubted about his game going into the season.
Johnson is a player that will likely benefit from NBA spacing and schemes. He often looked uncomfortable trying to create shots in the crowded painted area in college. So there is a legitimate shot that his game looked more fluid in workouts and pre-draft scrimmages.
The NBA Draft will take place on Thursday, June 20th. on ESPN. So throw on your UK gear and cheer on these three Wildcats for the final time.