Clipperholics
Fansided

Clippers’ Rookie Brice Johnson Makes His NBA Debut Vs Warriors

By Andrew Miller

September 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Brice Johnson (10) speaks during media day at Clipper Training Facility in Playa Vista. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
September 26, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Brice Johnson (10) speaks during media day at Clipper Training Facility in Playa Vista. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Despite the Clippers giving up 50 points in the third quarter on their way to a 4th consecutive loss to the Warriors this season, there was one bright light in an otherwise dark day in Oakland: The long-awaited NBA debut of rookie Brice Johnson.

The Clippers, it’s safe to say have the worst reputation in the entire NBA for developing and playing rookies.

Reggie Bullock, C.J. Wilcox and Branden Dawson all wasted away on the bench or were pulled in and out of the D-league. Eventually to be used as a “throw-in” to sweeten various trade deals.

Brice Johnson and Diamond Stone drafted at number 25 and number 40 respectively, feel a little different though.

Stone has played in 13 games (2 starts) in the NBA D-League so far. Despite not taking or making a single 3-pointer in his one year at Maryland. The Clippers’ rookie has actually shown some confidence in his outside shot, converting 37% on 27 attempted on the season. One of the biggest strengths in Stone’s game coming out of college was his ability to hit free throws at a consistent rate. For a player of his size, 83% (up from his 76% in his final year of college) from the line is hugely encouraging.  He has shown signs of promise and improvement, but Stone is still a raw prospect. Until he can iron out the fundamental kinks to his game, he is likely to remain out of the Clippers’ rotation for the rest of this year.

Brice Johnson & Diamond Stone
Credit: Sports Illustrated /

Brice Johnson

Brice Johnson on the other hand, hasn’t yet had the chance to develop alongside his fellow rookie. After sitting out the entire season to date due to a herniated disc in his back, the former UNC Tar Heel made his first ever professional appearance last night in Oakland, recording 2 rebounds in 2 minutes.

Johnson is an intriguing figure. His ability to run the floor in transition would naturally make him a perfect fit for the “lob city” style. The biggest question mark however, will likely be on the defensive end.

Despite his 6’9″ 230lbs frame, Johnson actually moves his feet well out on the perimeter. He’s not going to lock down Steph Curry or Kyrie Irving for 30 minutes in the post-season. However, having the foot speed and lateral quickness is definitely a huge advantage for modern-day big men.

His ability to stretch the floor, or at least develop a more consistent 15-20ft jump shot will be another key factor to him cracking the Clippers’ rotation. The success of Marreese Speights this season for LA has been predicated on his ability to open up driving lanes and draw frontcourt players out to the 3-point line.

Johnson actually has a strong case to become the first Clippers’ rookie to actually be a regular feature in the last few years. His athleticism speaks for itself. There are few power forwards in the NBA that have the leaping ability to rival the former First-Team All-American.

The last seven days have been huge for Brice Johnson’s young career. In recognition of his historical season at UNC where he set the record for most rebounds and most double-doubles in a single season, Johnson had his number 11 jersey retired and hoisted into the rafters alongside former running-mate Marcus Paige.

More from Clipperholics

Home/Clippers News