Four players the Utah Jazz could draft with the 23rd pick

Keldon Johnson

If Keldon Johnson is available when the Jazz are on the clock at pick 23, I’d have a hard time believing they’d pass up on him. In fact, I’d predict the Jazz would still have minutes to spare once they finalize the selection.

So, yeah, you can say I’m confident that Johnson would be the best player available at 23. The Jazz believe in the best player available philosophy. Even if they don’t get Keldon in for a workout, I’d expect them to have significant interest in the Kentucky guard.

Johnson will come into the NBA ready to play. He’s not a lanky, skinny kid fresh out of college. He has a legitimate NBA body, just as Donovan Mitchell did when he entered the league. Johnson is very strong and that strength will help him defend multiple positions at the NBA level.

At 6-foot-6, Johnson could be a good fit with Mitchell in the backcourt. That would require Mitchell playing point guard, which I think he’s more than capable of doing full-time in the future.

If you’re interested in comparisons, NBADraft.net compares Johnson to Corey Maggette, a guy who averaged 20-plus points in his prime. NBC Sports compares Johnson to Denver Nuggets guard Gary Harris. I can see the similarities between Johnson and Harris. Personally, Johnson reminds me of Eric Gordon early on in his career, when he was playing for the Clippers.

Keldon Johnson is an exciting prospect. His draft stock is surprisingly falling, which should make Jazz fans excited. He’s consistently pegged to be picked in the twenties. I think Johnson is easily a lottery talent.