Detroit Pistons: Five Predictions For The 2015-2016 NBA Season
Stanley Johnson Will Look Great…and Look Like a Rookie But Finish Top-5 in ROY voting
Oct 10, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Stanley Johnson (3) during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Detroit won 117-88. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Much has been said so far about the Pistons eight overall draft pick, Stanley Johnson. He’s look great so far during both Summer League and the preseason. The poise he flashes on the court has optimists comparing him to some Hall-of-Famers.
And with so many expectations, Johnson will both rise to meet some of them but struggle to meet others.
The most important part of all this though will be that this should be expected from a 19-year-old rookie. He’ll have his rookie moments just like every other rook.
He’ll show moments like these and pump up the crowd. And at other times he’ll struggle with his shot and maybe even his confidence. With the long season, that’s just what happens over time.
But Pistons fans should be patient with him. After all, he has honestly looked spectacular at times. And that will all lead to a top-5 finish in the Rookie of the Year voting.
The ROY voting is generally whoever scores the most points, so he’ll have to overcome guys like Emmanuel Mudiay and D’Angelo Russell who will get playing time right out of the gates.
Just like he said on draft day, Johnson has fully embraced the “Detroit vs Everybody” mentality, which is what this team might need. A little toughness and grit never hurt anybody.
Don’t forget the chip on his shoulder when guys like ESPN’s Chad Ford claims the Pistons picking Johnson over Justise Winslow was a mistake. If he’s hungry to be better and prove something, it’ll show in his game.
All in all, Johnson will have a strong rookie season. He’ll show moments of greatness and weakness. But if he gets enough playing time to make his impact on the scoring sheet, look for him to further elevate his game to national prominence.
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