NBA Draft Profile: Orlando Johnson
Orlando Johnson - SG - 6’5, 224lbs.
UC Santa Barbara
The NBA scouting combine isn’t often thought of as a place where prospects can boost their stock. UC Santa Barbara’s Orlando Johnson may be an outlier to this rule. A huge wingspan – measured at 6’11 – coupled with excellent play during the five-on-five portion of the combine has boosted Johnson’s stock ahead of the draft.
The Big West conference isn't the toughest, but Johnson’s performances against San Diego State, Washington, BYU, Cal, and UNLV should alleviate concerns about weak competition. The Seaside, California native did it all for the Gaucho’s, taking the toughest shots while leading the team in scoring. As a senior, Johnson handled the ball more frequently, showing his versatility. While his defensive game needs work, his play at the combine coupled with an excellent collegiate career should see the shooting guard go in the late-first to early-second round range.
Matt Kamalsky of Draft Express believes that “while his role is less reflective of where he seems to fit best at the NBA level than it was last year, Johnson's scoring instincts and productivity still have him firmly on the NBA radar."
