The Detroit Pistons are right in the mix for a playoff spot, and are looking like a team on the rise. They have a good coach with young pieces to build around, and it will be interesting to see their development the rest of the season. They hope to make a playoff push to give their younger players as much experience as possible. One player who needs more time is Stanley Johnson, who has the potential to develop into a very good player down the road.
Johnson is an extremely young prospect, but he has the talent needed to succeed in the league. He has great size on the perimeter, and can utilize his strength to play a variety of positions. He is capable of getting to the basket and making plays, although he must continue to improve as a ball-handler. He plays hard on both ends of the court, and his energy can give a boost to his teammates. Defensively is where he will likely make his mark in the league, as he is a tough competitor who is not afraid to get physical.
Johnson’s outside shot needs work, as he must make defenses respect him on the perimeter. The Pistons have one of the best rolling big men in the league, and their offense will likely depend on them being able to create space in the paint. He also needs to become better at making plays off of the ball, especially with so much attention paid to his teammates. However, these are areas that will certainly improve as he gets more playing time, as long as he has the desire to get better.
Johnson is a very intriguing prospect, as not many players possess his physical tools. He can play shooting guard or small forward, and may even be able to fill in at times as a power forward in a small lineup. He competes on both ends of the court and is part of a roster with a lot of potential. The Pistons need to give Johnson more playing time and encourage his development.