Tavari Johnson is a small right-handed point guard who stood out as Akron’s spark. Johnson averaged 19.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. He played all four NCAA seasons at Akron and was named First Team All-MAC and MAC Tournament MVP. At 6'0" with a 6'3" wingspan and 166 pounds, Johnson is small by NBA point guard standards. The offensive skill is what makes him interesting. He is a creative scorer with an array of floaters and runners in his bag. He can dance with the dribble, create separation, and set up the three-ball. He is very aggressive, likes to shoot, and will give himself a chance, as we like to say. Johnson made 38.3% from three-point range for his career and shot 87.0% from the free throw line this season. He also posted a 2.04-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio and runs the pick-and-roll well. He finished third in the MAC in box score plus/minus, despite being a minus defender. The defensive projection is the issue. Johnson’s DDiff was minus 3.8, and the lack of size will be a challenge at the next level. Still, he is really good on offense. The shot-making, handle, pick-and-roll craft, free throw touch, and confidence are all real. We do not foresee Johnson being drafted. He is small, and the defensive numbers are not favorable, but we cannot rule out him making it in the NBA as a reserve point guard.
