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Pistons select Stanley Johnson with 8th pick

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

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The Detroit Pistons selected Arizona small forward Stanley Johnson with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft on Thursday night.

It speaks to the talent at the top of the draft that landing Johnson at No. 8 isn't considered a big splash. Johnson is a player who entered the season as a top-five recruit, turned in a solid freshman campaign, and created few doubts about his eventual standing as a quality NBA rotation player.

But upside rules on draft day, and Johnson is more of a play for floor. He may have the most "what you see is what you get" quotient in the draft, and the Pistons need assistance on the wings. It likely came down to a choice between Johnson and Justise Winslow.

Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy said at the team's draft party Thursday night that several teams called after the selection interested in trading for Johnson. He added however that Johnson is staying put.

After averaging 13.8 points and 6.5 rebounds for a very good Arizona team, Johnson measured well at the combine with a 6-foot-11.5 wingspan and firmed up his standing as someone likely to contribute at the defensive end. If his 37.1 percent mark from long range can carry over, his downside seems to be that of a 3-and-D player with a nose for the rim as a bonus.

You can read more about Johnson in our scouting report.

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