2. AJ Johnson, Illawarra Hawks
AJ Johnson is easily one of the most mysterious players in the draft. The 19-year-old guard joined Australia's National Basketball League (NBL) through the Next Stars program. He had originally committed to the University of Texas before deciding to head down under.
While playing in one of the world's most physical leagues, the youngster averaged a mere 2.9 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 0.7 assists in 7.7 minutes per game. Johnson is very slight, weighing just 167 pounds and standing 6-foot-4, limiting his effectiveness.
Physical maturation will be key for Johnson to take his game to the next level. Playing a season in the NBL at 18 years old didn't do the slithery guard many favors. Suiting up for Texas, or even the Ignite would've allowed Johnson to develop.
Despite the lack of playing time, Johnson's combination of athleticism and ball handling popped. He stood out in transition and attacking downhill in the halfcourt. Johnson does a great job breaking down defenses with an advanced handle and superb first step. It's easy to envision the young guard blowing by NBA defenders with his impressive burst.
Whenever Johnson gets by defenders, he's shown the ability to make the right read—especially in transition. He's prone to overdribbling at times, but with more reps, patience will come.
Johnson's draft stock saw a rise in May. He competed in two scrimmages at the NBA Combine and flashed his high-level upside. Johnson scored 13 points and dished out four assists in the first scrimmage. The draft hopeful made 5-of-7 field goals and ranked second amongst all participants in plus/minus.
Johnson played for the winning team once again in the second exhibition game. In that game, he scored only four points but led the squad with six assists. At this stage in Johnson's development, his shooting will be his biggest swing skill. Johnson only shot 27.8 percent on a low volume of 3-point attempts in the NBL.