A look at potential New Orleans Pelicans draft pick, Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr.
The 2026 NBA draft is under two weeks away now and the rumors are heating up. Though the New Orleans Pelicans have just the No. 58 overall selection in the draft, they have been rumored to be trying to get back into the lottery.
Most of the prospect preparation has been for the second round, given that that is where the Pelicans are drafting, but it can now expand out into potential lottery selections.
Continuing the series of prospect profiles, it's time to look at one of the most intriguing talents in the draft: Michigan Wolverines forward Morez Johnson Jr. He certainly has the potential and toolset to at least make an aggressive trade make sense.
Johnson posted 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.7 steals and 1.1 blocks per game on 62.3/34.3/78.2 shooting splits for the Wolverines last season en route to Michigan's national championship win. He was a crucial part of their gameplan.
The 34.3% from three is a little bit misleading when looking at how efficient he was overall. Johnson was just 12-of-35 on his threes last season. It's clear that he can shoot a little bit, the solid free throw percentage also suggests this, but the Wolverines just didn't ask him to do it much.
Johnson's draft stock really exploded this offseason, though, when he went 17-of-25 from three in shooting drills at the NBA combine. He also measured in at 6-foot-9, 250 pounds with a great wingspan and good athleticism. On paper, he has the makings of an elite modern NBA wing.
Should the New Orleans Pelicans trade up for Morez Johnson Jr?
While New Orleans would likely have to shell out a fairly sizable trade package to get back into at least the late lottery to get Johnson, but he would be fun enough of a prospect to warrant anything that isn't too absurd.
Jamahl Mosley mentioned wanting to get things done on the defensive side of the ball first. Johnson brings a high motor, great frame, plays with a ton of strength and clearly has the potential to space the floor.
The 20-year-old is exactly what the Pelicans need to add next to their rotation. He also projects as a perfect longterm fit next to both Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, which New Orleans can't ignore even if they are not completely going towards a rebuild right now.
