Busting Brackets
Fansided

NBA Draft 2022: Live evaluations from middle part of 2021-22 CBB season

Nov 12, 2021; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers forward Jabari Smith (10) attempts a 3 point shot during the second half against the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks at Auburn Arena. Smith led all scorers with 23 points. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2021; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers forward Jabari Smith (10) attempts a 3 point shot during the second half against the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks at Auburn Arena. Smith led all scorers with 23 points. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 6
Next
NBA Draft Wisconsin Badgers guard Johnny Davis Daniel Kucin Jr.-USA TODAY Sports
NBA Draft Wisconsin Badgers guard Johnny Davis Daniel Kucin Jr.-USA TODAY Sports /

Johnny Davis – Sophomore – Wisconsin – 6’5, 196 lbs – February 2002

One of the biggest surprises of the draft cycle, was my first time focusing on Davis in person. He’s got a strong build with broad shoulders and a wide-lower half. He’s probably closer to 6’4 than his listed 6’5 height.

Iowa doesn’t have the best defense, but Davis’ full shot-making arsenal was on display. He hit open jumpers, pull-up shots going both ways, and even a stepback three. His sub-36 three-point % stems from the tough shots he’s asked to take. I don’t think he’s going to be this all-world shooter, but I project him as a good shooter.

Davis lacks some vertical pop but uses his strength and body control to make tough finishes. His handle isn’t great right now and I have some concerns with his burst, especially if he’s going to be a primary. I’d like to see more of his buckets come easier. He’s not a great passer, but he makes the right reads and draws a fair amount of gravity to open passing lanes. Defensively, I think he will be able to guard multiple spots in the backcourt.

The lack of elite run-jump ability has some skeptical of his upside. I understand that argument, but there isn’t a more well-rounded guard prospect in this class. Davis really doesn’t have holes and can grow across multiple areas of his game. The general intel on him has praised him as a hard worker and competitor. I left Madison encouraged with what I saw and can’t picture him falling outside my top five.