3 prospects the Cavs should not have passed on in the 2023 NBA Draft

NBA Draft Prospect No. 2: Keyontae Johnson

Another wing prospect that the Cavs should not have passed on, Keyontae Johnson would have been the perfect fit on the wing for the team. He was taken right after the Cavs selected Emoni Bates, as the Oklahoma City Thunder took Johnson. Johnson’s story is incredible, as he has completely bounced back from his collapse on the court less than three years ago. He has developed into an NBA-caliber player and was a huge part of Kansas State’s run to the Elite Eight.

Johnson averaged 17 points per game for Kansas State and shot 51% from the field and 41% from three-point range, albeit on just three attempts per game. On offense, he is a strong cutter and is always in the right spot due to his high basketball IQ. He is also a strong finisher at the rim and can put the ball on the floor as well.

Johnson is also a strong defender, who’s length allows him to guard multiple positions, and he is also a physical defender. Johnson may be an undersized forward, but he has all the tools to be a quality role player and while Bates has more upside, Johnson is a bit more NBA-ready.