The Detroit Free Press' Drew Sharp believes the Pistons should have drafted Devin Booker in the first round. ESPN's Chad Ford was under the impression that Johnson was an odd pick with Justise Winslow still available. Both MLive's David Mayo and the Freep's Vince Ellis were positive about Van Gundy's choice -- the divisiveness in the media mirroring the DBB community's reaction to Detroit selecting Arizona's Stanley Johnson eighth overall yesterday.
Amidst debate about Johnson's measurements, his shooting ability and overall skill, one argument seemed to slip through the cracks: the 19 year old fits Stan Van Gundy's vision for the future of Detroit's small forward situation. Stanley is a defensive presence to be reckoned with, Detroit seem to think his overall shooting will improve as a pro, and his slashing game should translate to the NBA. As Mayo reported during the Combine, the Arizona product had previous connections with Reggie Jackson and Andre Drummond, who both reached out to the prospect prior to the draft, and Van Gundy knew Johnson's character was flawless after consulting old friend and Arizona head coach Sean Miller.
Winslow, who had an outstanding performance during the NCAA tournament, had red flags raised about his size and attitude, which led to his slide in the draft. The Pistons did their homework, and felt as though Johnson would be a great fit along Kentavious Caldwell-Pope on the perimeter.
Darrun Hilliard, who was selected 38th overall, figures to be behind Pope and Jodie Meeks on the depth chart at shooting guard, and displayed the toughness and shooting ability that led to the Pistons pulling the trigger on drafting him. Piston executives were high on the Villanova guard, who improved his shooting year after year, and displayed the type of grit and savvy they want to be a part of the Pistons new culture. His defensive ability and ball handling made the decision all the more easier for Jeff Bower and SVG.
Hilliard and Johnson fit with Stan Van Gundy's vision, they fit with the Detroit Pistons.
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