#4: Johnny Juzang
When the Utah Jazz announced they had signed wing Johnny Juzang, I was ecstatic. He was excellent in UCLA’s improbable Final Four run and was a solid starter in his two years with the Bruins. I had high hopes for him in the Summer League, and then he flopped a little.
As a two-time All-PAC 12 selection, I honestly thought he would be a first-round pick. Shows what I know. Anyway, Juzang had a solid two seasons at UCLA, averaging 15.8 points on 35% shooting from deep.
His sophomore year was better than his junior year, and that lack of improvement is a big red flag for me. Apparently, it is for Utah as well, as he is the only player on a two-way deal, instead of the standard rookie contract. Maybe time with the G-League Stars will help him out, but I’m afraid Juzang just isn’t at the NBA level, and he may never get there.
In the Summer League, his shooting naturally dropped, since the three-point line is further back, but he couldn’t even average double-digit points. Granted, he suffered a concussion before the Vegas play started, but it’s still a bad sign. He was turnover prone and just did not look confident with the rock in his hands.