NBA Draft 2021: Grades for all 30 draft picks from the first round
19. Charlotte Hornets: Kai Jones, Forward, Texas
Grade: A
In need of a big, the Hornets were rumored to be interested in Jones at No. 11, but that was probably a bit too early. Seeing that he fell, they wisely traded into No. 19 to take him. Jones is still a bit raw but had some really intriguing flashes of awesomeness. He’s lengthy, has some shooting potential, and glides across the floor. P.J. Washington could be a good player to learn from.
When on the court, Jones’ open-court speed is a useful weapon, particularly in the fast break with Lamelo Ball. This is more of a long-term investment but he fits terrifically with youngsters Ball and James Bouknight.
20. Atlanta Hawks: Jalen Johnson, Forward, Duke
Grade: B+
Johnson’s fall was somewhat expected, and Atlanta wisely snatched him up as “best player available”. His passing should be maximized next to a primary creator like Trae Young, who can create advantages for him. The Hawks now have some serious size on the wing with Johnson, Collins, and Cam Reddish.
The question with Johnson is how do you maximize that “potential”, but this could be a good place to do it. He won’t be tasked with too many responsibilities early on. My only concern is Johnson, a non-shooter at this stage, fit next to two traditional, non-shooting bigs in Clint Capela in Onyeka Okongwu. Johnson has to turn flashes into continued positive plays. But there’s clear two-way potential here.
21. Los Angeles Clippers: Keon Johnson, Guard/Forward, Tennessee
Grade: A-
Another team swooping in to take a player whose stock was sinking, the Clippers traded up to the Knicks spot to take Johnson. The Tennessee product is an explosive athlete, setting the combine record for vertical jump. His feel lags a bit, but he’s got plenty of room to develop. The Clippers already have most of their roster filled, so the G-League seems plausible for Johnson, which could be good for him.
If he develops, Johnson’s two-way potential could be dangerous for an already really good defense. Some medical concerns sunk his stunk, per Sports Illustrated’s Jeremy Woo, so if it doesn’t work then I think it was a good, low-risk, upside swing.