Michigan Basketball: 3 Thoughts on Wolverines 2021 depth chart

Brandon Johns at center?

There was obvious concern about Livers not returning for his senior season, but one player who would have gained from him staying in the draft is junior-to-be Brandon Johns.

If Livers had left for the NBA, Johns would be the starting four next season. He took a solid step forward last year, averaging 6.0 points and 3.9 rebounds in 19.5 minutes. He shot 49.2 percent from the field and 34.5 from 3-point range.

The question is how to best utilize him?

Like Brown or Brooks, whoever comes off the bench in the backcourt, Michigan will have another skilled player off the bench in the frontcourt in Johns. Like Brooks or Brown, he’s more than capable of being a starter.

So the top 7-8 for Michigan is really talented. Hunter Dickinson and Austin Davis will play the more traditional center role. Both can score with their back to the basket, but defense isn’t a strong suit for either.

In that regard, Johns is probably the best rim protecter/shot blocker Michigan basketball has, meaning he should get plenty of minutes at the four and even some at center.

I still maintain Michigan’s best lineup is with him starting at center. Austin Davis is a productive dude, but I don’t think he should play beyond 15-20 minutes. I also think Hunter Dickinson is a better offensive player now too.

Between the three of them, I like what Michigan can do at the five and even at the four. Johns will see time at both positions and heading into 2021-22, he will be a clear starter after playing like one in 2020-21.