Morez Johnson talks about a possible return to Michigan in effort to repeat

Adding Morez Johnson out of the transfer portal was one of the best moves Dusty May made last offseason.

This offseason, it's all about keeping Johnson. Michigan doesn't have to worry about the transfer portal. The NBA draft could be where Johnson goes. He's been projected as a first-round pick, but in the bottom of the first round.

That could carry some risk. Players who slip into the second round of the NBA draft aren't guaranteed a contract like they are in the first round. Johnson talked about this, and his decision with NBA Sports Chicago.

“There’s no rush because if I can’t get a (guarantee NBA contract this year), I know I can get it next year. I have no issue with coming back to Michigan and trying to repeat," Johnson said.

Morez Johnson is vital for Michigan basketball if it wants to repeat

Michigan is already losing All-American Yaxel Lendeborg, who is out of eligibility. Aday Mara is also expected to enter the NBA draft. The Wolverines have already added one of the best big men available in the transfer portal, in Tennessee's J.P. Estrella.

Estrella is a 6-foot-11 low-post scorer. He's a solid defender, but isn't a shot blocker like Mara. Few players are, but Johnson offers some rim protection, and his ability to switch onto guards as a defender is a game-changer.

It feels like Johnson will end up declaring for the NBA draft, but weighing his options. That will put Michigan in a tough spot roster-wise, but it feels like there's a better than 50/50 chance of Johnson being back in the maize and blue next season.

Elliot Cadeau and Trey McKenney have each re-signed for next season. Getting Johnson to do the same, instead of entering the NBA draft would be the best possible scenario for the Wolverines.