Johson and Teague draft rumblings

Less than 36 hours from the NBA Draft and rumors are flying. Whether or not any of them will prove to be true remains to be seen, but this is what's news regarding the NBA Draft and Wake's players.

James Johnson's stock seems to be rising. Reports indicate he has worked out again for the Washington Wizards, who own the ninth pick in Thursday's draft, and that the Chicago Bulls, who currently hold the 16th pick, could be working on a package to trade up to 11, currently owned by the New Jersey Nets.

Duke's Gerald Henderson has also been mentioned alongside Johnson for these picks, as have Jrue Holiday, Demar DeRozan, Austin Daye, and Jonny Flynn.

Detroit Pistons President of Basketball Operations has also indicated the likelihood of drafting a forward with their pick at 15.

Johnson may have previously been rumored to be falling in teams eyes, but if Chicago is looking to move up from 16 in hopes of being able to get Johnson at 11, then one would assume teams are once again looking more favorably at the Wake Forest forward.

At this point it is looking more and more likely that Johnson will be picked in the top 16, and quite possibly even as a lottery pick (top 14).

Jeff Teague has been receiving some interest from different teams as well. Indiana Pacers General Manager Larry Bird mentioned Teague along with Alabama-Birmingham's Robert Vaden. Teague was mentioned in regard to Indiana's 13th pick, while Vaden is most likely a second rounder. Both players are originally from the Indianapolis area, so the line of questioning may have been more directed by a local journalist than actual interest.

Teague has also recently spent time in Utah working out for the Jazz, who hold the 20th pick. Should Teague fall past 19, it is certainly possible the Jazz would pounce on the talented guard, developing him as the backup to Deron Williams. It would certainly be quite a learning experience for Teague, but may mean it will take longer for him to see significant playing time in the NBA.

Two top 20 picks would be a nice accomplishment for Wake Forest basketball. Johnson and Teague both have the potential to produce notable results in the NBA, and although they are unlikely to be the next Chris Paul or Tim Duncan, they do have a lot of potential.

Stay tuned for more from Deacons Illustrated throughout the next several days as the draft happens for more on the futures of James Johnson and Jeff Teague.