DHJ Quick Take: Mike Schmitz Says Morez Johnson Jr. Brings the Toughness Dallas Wanted
Mavericks GM Mike Schmitz said the No. 9 selection of Morez Johnson Jr. fit the toughness and competitiveness the front office prioritized. He called Johnson a high-upside modern defender and rejected the idea of a low offensive ceiling.
- Why did the Mavericks draft Morez Johnson Jr.? Schmitz cited his toughness, motor, and proven winning at age 20.
- How does Johnson fit the modern game? Schmitz pointed to his switchability and ability to guard one through five.
- What about his offense? Schmitz declined to put a ceiling on him, citing his rate of improvement.
- Who led the pick? Schmitz, in his first draft as Mavericks GM, alongside Masai Ujiri.
- What’s next? Johnson joins a young Dallas core under new coach Dusty May.
DALLAS — Dallas Mavericks general manager Mike Schmitz said the selection of Morez Johnson Jr. at No. 9 in the 2026 NBA Draft fit the toughness, motor, and competitiveness the front office set out to add, calling the Michigan forward a proven winner at one of the youngest ages in his class.
Schmitz, in his first draft running the Mavericks’ room, framed Johnson as a high-floor addition whose intangibles matched the identity Dallas is trying to build.
Mike Schmitz on What Morez Johnson Jr. Brings to Dallas
Schmitz pointed to Johnson’s energy and competitive edge as the traits that stood out, along with the fact that he produced at a high level as a 20-year-old.
“Morez brings the type of toughness, competitiveness that we’re looking for,” Schmitz said. “High-energy guy, incredible motor, winner. Has done it at the highest level of college basketball and did so as a 20-year-old too. He’s young for his class, so he brings that type of energy and toughness that we want here in Dallas.”
Asked how Johnson profiles as a modern big, Schmitz emphasized his mobility and defensive range.
“Just the switchability at 6-foot-10, 250-plus pounds with a 7-foot-3 wingspan, and you’re not supposed to move like he does at that size,” Schmitz said. “So he can step out and guard point guards, ones, twos, threes, fours, fives. His defensive upside is incredibly high.”
Mike Schmitz on Morez Johnson Jr.’s Offensive Upside
Schmitz pushed back on the idea that Johnson carries a low offensive ceiling, citing his rate of improvement from his freshman year to his championship season.
“I wouldn’t put a ceiling on a 20-year-old who’s had that rate of improvement,” Schmitz said. “His passing really improved. He started stepping out and shooting the three occasionally. So just to see that rate of improvement, I think signals that there’s more growth ahead as well on the offensive end.”
Johnson averaged 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game as a sophomore while helping Michigan to a 37-3 record and the program’s first national title in 37 years. He projects as a frontcourt piece in a young Dallas core under new head coach Dusty May and president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri.
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