After coaching Morez Johnson Jr. at Michigan, Dallas Mavericks coach Dusty May envisions the ninth overall pick seeing rotation minutes this season as a rookie.
Johnson was drafted by the Mavericks on the same day the organization announced May as its next head coach, fresh off their title run last season at Michigan. He was a second-team All-Big Ten selection, averaging 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.1 blocks in 40 games.
The 6-foot-9 Johnson established himself as a lottery pick because of his motor, competitiveness and defensive versatility. May has also gushed over his willingness to do the dirty work on the court and overall ability to impact winning overall.
"I know one of the things that makes him so valuable is he checks a lot
of boxes," May said at media day on Sept. 25. "Whatever that moment needs, or that game needs, or what the team needs, he is adaptable. He transformed his game last year for us because of his adaptability, but the things that make 'Rez, 'Rez, are his tenacity, his heart, his physicality—doing whatever it takes to win and assist his teammates. I don't know the specifics of what position yet, but I think he'll find a way to be in the rotation."
May and the Mavericks haven't had a chance to fully evaluate Johnson yet because an undisclosed injury has limited him early in training camp. But May said Monday that Johnson is "close" to returning, according to Mike Curtis of the Dallas Morning News.
Johnson averaged 18.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, three blocks, 2.5 steals and 1.5 assists with the Mavericks in summer league. He was limited to two appearances because of calf soreness, though it is unknown whether that is the same injury Johnson is dealing with this week.
The 20-year-old joked after joining the team that he believes he may have a competitive advantage over the rest of the roster after playing for May last season. But joking aside, Johnson enjoyed his time with May and is eager to begin his NBA career with him.
"I think Dusty is a unique coach," Johnson said. "You can have fun with him off the court. (He) is easy to talk to; you can trust him with anything. Then he knows how to flip a switch to get serious, coach you and put you in positions for you to be at your best. He is just a great guy."
The Mavericks were also drawn to Johnson's rebounding and upside. The group is ecstatic to plug him into different lineups, particularly on defense, given his size at 253 pounds and ability to protect the paint and clean the glass at a high level.
Johnson should have the opportunity to compete for minutes once he is cleared for full practice. He wants to make the most of training camp and put the team's needs first.
"I like just doing my job every day, showing up, trying to get (better)," Johnson said. "I feel like doing that and worrying about that, everything else will take care of itself."
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Mavericks coach Dusty May reveals possible role for Morez Johnson Jr.
