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By Anne Erickson
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Don't look now, but the Dallas Mavericks are entering a new chapter, and Morez Johnson Jr. could be one of the first pieces to help shape it.
That's a lot of responsibility for a rookie. But, he can handle it.
Dallas selected Johnson with the No. 9 pick, adding a player who brings something every team needs: effort. The former Michigan standout built his reputation on defense, rebounding, and doing the little things that often decide big games.
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That was on full display during Michigan's national championship run. Johnson was the type of player who could change the energy of a game without needing plays drawn up for him. Now, the challenge is finding ways for that impact to translate to the NBA level.
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The Mavericks are hoping his offensive game continues to grow. Johnson has been working on his 3-point shot, and if that development becomes a real part of his game, Dallas could have found a very valuable piece. Playing alongside Cooper Flagg, last year's No. 1 pick, should give him plenty of opportunities.
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Defenses are going to focus a lot of attention on Flagg. That could create chances for players like Johnson to make an impact. If he can knock down open shots, hit the boards and continue bringing the same defensive intensity, he could become exactly the type of player Dallas needs around its young star.
The Mavericks also added Sergio De Larrea with the No. 25 pick and selected Tobi Lawal and Vsevolod Ishchenko in the second round. De Larrea brings experience after playing professionally in Spain, while Lawal gives the team another athletic forward to develop.
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But Johnson is the player to watch. Dallas is trying to build a new identity around Flagg, and that means finding players who complement his game. Johnson is one.
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