Cavs 2022 NBA Draft Notebook: Johnny Davis Scouting Report

Davis needs playmaking work, but his defensive ceiling would be too hard to ignore

One area of weakness for Davis this past season, is that his shooting was somewhat off and on.

In a January game versus Ohio State, he was 4-of-18 from the field, and struggled mightily on the offensive end. Then, three weeks later against a good Illinois team, he again struggled, going 4-of-19 from the field. However, in that game he got to the charity stripe 14 times, so he was more effective. Getting to the line is another thing that Davis does well. He averaged over six free throws per game in 2021-22, and hit them at a 79% rate.

Another weakness that Davis may have is that he really isn’t the best playmaker. Again, he’s a great shot creator for himself, but he won’t amaze you with his passing ability. But, even with the erratic shooting, and passing limitations, his defensive ceiling is incredibly high, which would make him a perfect fit with the Cavaliers by way of the 2022 NBA Draft.

The Wisconsin guard is relentless on the defensive end. He puts constant pressure on opposing ball-handlers, and loves to get in passing lanes. On top of that, his defensive technique is ready for the next level.

Rarely do you see a prospect who can come in and defend NBA players from day one. Davis reminds me a lot of the Milwaukee Bucks’ Jrue Holiday on the defensive end. He has the same type of constant motor that makes him a horrible sight for opposing ball-handlers.

Davis is a prospect that the more I watch him, the more I like him on this Cavalier roster. Even with his defensive ceiling being as high as it is, his shot creation on offense would help the Cavalier offense immensely. Honestly, the biggest question in my opinion is whether or not he will be available when the Cavs pick in the first round of the 2022 NBA Draft.

Right now it does look unlikely, but now-President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman is known to have some tricks up his sleeve.