Samson Johnson is one of the many eye-catching prospects the Milwaukee Bucks have on their workout list leading up to the NBA Draft. The big man's workout with the Bucks already went down, and this writer connected with Johnson's agent, BJ Bass, to get an inside look at how things went. Johnson said all of the right things regarding the workout.
"I thought my workout with the Bucks went very well. I was able to showcase my athleticism and motor. I was also able to show my skill set, which NBA teams were not really able to see at UCONN, because I had a more defined role as a lob-catcher and rim-protector. I have enjoyed the entire pre-draft process. I am meeting great people and I get to have an experience with the organization where I will hopefully start my Professional career."
Samson Johnson knows what the Milwaukee Bucks need
It's clear that the Milwaukee Bucks need more athleticism and high-motor players this offseason, so Johnson started his comments off on the right foot. It's interesting that Johnson explained that his skill set goes beyond just the lob-catching and rim protecting and how he feels like perhaps he has more to give at the next level (Maybe expanding his shot range further from the hoop).
The most prominent question mark awaiting Samson Johnson at the next level is his ability to defend in space. Protecting the rim is great, but in today's NBA, bigs must also be able to step out and guard on the perimeter to truly make their money. Johnson has the mobility and athletic chops to succeed in this regard, but he must display it consistently, which will only come in time.
There's plenty to like about the young big man. A two-time NCAA Champion with four years of college experience in tow, Johnson could be ready to help sooner rather than later. For the Milwaukee Bucks, a team that has so many question marks in the frontcourt, finding a hidden gem could go a long way in their quest to bounce back from last season's failure.
Johnson is coming off his best season, having averaged 7.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and an assist per game while shooting 76.6 percent from the floor. At 22, he's still young and has plenty of room to keep growing, whether that ends up being with the Milwaukee Bucks or not. Being around players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez, and Bobby Portis could help boost his growth.
Reuniting with fellow UConn Champion Andre Jackson Jr. could also give him some familiarity with the franchise, which could be useful in his new NBA environment.
The big man will be in high demand, as Bass notes that the Lakers, Clippers, Hawks, Wizards, Nets, Magic, Heat and Pacers are also all eyeing the two-time NCAA Champion ahead of the NBA Draft.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.