By Jessica Camerato
CSNNE.comFollow @JCameratoNBA
BOSTON - On Draft Night, the Boston Celtics selected Providence guard Marshon Brooks with the 25th overall pick . . . and minutes later traded him to the New Jersey Nets as part of a deal to acquire big man JaJuan Johnson from Purdue. So who is Johnson? Get to know the newest member of the Celtics.
The Basics
Position: Forward
Height: 6-10
Weight: 221
Born: February 8, 1989
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
College: Purdue University
Collegiate Accolades
During his senior year at Purdue, Johnson was named First Team All-American, Big Ten Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. Last season he averaged 20.5 ppg (49.4 FG, 80.9 FT), 8.6 rpg, 2.3 bpg, 1.6 TO.
Docs Take
Pick-and-pop, hes a terrific shooter for his size and extremely athletic," said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. "He obviously rebounded well in college, which you hope translates over to the pros. But weve proven we can get shots for our bigs . . . and so if we can get him shots, hell make them. The defensive part, comes from a great program and hes a high character kid. At pick number 25, thats what you hope for.
How He Will Complement the Celtics
Johnson gives the Celtics the size they need after their frontcourt was depleted last season. Dont expect him to be a 20-and-10 guy next season - thats not the role of rookies on this veteran team - but he can learn and develop under the leadership of experienced teammates, especially Kevin Garnett.
I dont think I ever have to talk to Kevin about that, Rivers said of Garnett offering leadership. It will be Johnsons choice if he wants to follow it. One thing, Kevins a great teacher - actually the best teacher that Ive ever coached, by far. But if you dont listen the first time, hell never teach you again, and thats just how he works.
A Reliable Referral
Rivers son, Jeremiah, gave Johnson a strong review after playing against him in college. Jeremiah loved him, Rivers said. When we drafted him he actually thought it was one of the best players that he had played against. He knows what hes talking about, hopefully.
Boston Celtics
Where to find him
Johnson is on Twitter @BoilerBaller25.
Random Fact
JaJuan will be the fifth player with the last name "Johnson" on the Celtics. Former players include (in chronological order from the most recent) Chris Johnson, Joe Johnson, Dennis Johnson, and Rich Johnson.
Jessica Camerato is on Twitter at http:twitter.com!JCameratoNBA