Detroit Pistons: Draft picks rising up the big boards after NCAA tournament

Possible Detroit Pistons draft picks: Johnny Juzang, UCLA

Before Jalen Suggs’ shot that ended UCLA’s season, Johnny Juzang was the star of the tournament.

Coming out of high school, Juzang was a 4-star recruit and the 30th ranked player in the class of 2019. After his so-so freshman season at Kentucky, Juzang transferred back home to UCLA, proving to be a great decision.

Starting in UCLA’s First Four win over Michigan State, Juzang went on a tear, scoring over 20 points in four of their six games. Looking back at his regular season statistics, we should have seen this coming. Juzang averaged 16.0ppg on 35 percent shooting from three and 87 percent from the line.

At 6-foot-7 and 200 lbs, he is exactly the type of lengthy shooter that NBA teams are looking for.

Strengths: Shooting. Shooting. Shooting. Juzang possesses all of the skills needed to be an elite NBA shooter, including his ability to create his own shot off the dribble. His high free throw percentage is also a great indicator for this shot translating to the next level.

Weaknesses: Defense and playmaking for others are two of the biggest concerns with Juzang’s game. He is serviceable on the defense end, but needs to make big strides to be considered a “3 and D” player. His playmaking should come with time as he continues to become more comfortable with the ball in his hands.

Fit with the Pistons: Assuming Juzang decides to enter the draft, he will likely land in the mid to late first round. Big boards are still adjusting to performances in the tournament so keep an eye on his rise. Juzang is the type of player the Detroit Pistons could target with a trade, but he falls outside the range for their own draft pick. Fit will not be an issue anywhere in the league. Shooting continues to be coveted and Juzang showed the world he can knock them down with the best of them.