Theo Pinson a natural to succeed JP Tokoto

Theo Pinson is not J.P. Tokoto.

The comparisons between the North Carolina wings are striking. Both feature 6-foot-6 frames and weigh 200 pounds, and each sports subpar shooting, elite athleticism and a penchant for playmaking.

So when Tokoto declared for the 2015 NBA Draft in April, Pinson seemed a natural fit for the vacated starter spot.

“He’s pretty much very close to as athletic as J.P. was,” junior guard Nate Britt said. “A lot of those intangible things that J.P. did for us, Theo can do as well.”

In the 2014-15 season, Tokoto was the consummate complementary player for the Tar Heels. The junior averaged 8.3 points and 5.6 rebounds and finished in the top 10 in the ACC in assists and steals — the only forward to do so.

But his absence creates a hole in the starting lineup.

“I wish he was still here because he was a great teammate, great player, and that would have just made us even better,” Pinson said.

“But at the same time, that means somebody’s got to step up. And if that’s my job, then I’m ready to go.”

But first, the sophomore must stay on the court.

After breaking the fifth metatarsal in his left foot on Jan. 21 against Wake Forest, Pinson was sidelined the next 10 games and played sparingly the remainder of the season.

While Tokoto flashed his wide array of skills, Pinson could only watch.

“The injury has definitely helped me ... focus on the little things,” he said.

From the bench, Pinson closely observed Tokoto’s defensive dominance. With his predecessor gone, Pinson is ready to assume the role of defensive stopper.

And just as Tokoto was known for bringing energy with his signature slams, Pinson is prepared for the mantle of resident dunker.

“I was blessed with the ability,” he said. “So I’m going to do my best.”

As for Pinson’s health, the sophomore has taken a much slower approach to this season, sitting out offseason pickup games and preseason practices.

Following UNC’s exhibition win on Nov. 6, Pinson admitted the trainers have told him to temper his efforts to avoid reaggravating his injury.

“I’m getting there,” he said. “But of course, I can do better.”

With the recent injury to senior guard Marcus Paige shorthanding the Tar Heels, Pinson’s return holds even greater importance.

“We need to get Theo back out there,” Coach Roy Williams said.

And with Tokoto’s starting spot up for grabs, Pinson isn’t taking any chances.

“They’re telling me to take it slow because they really want me to be on the court this year,” he said. “I know how important I am to this team.”

He’s no Tokoto. But perhaps Pinson is all the Tar Heels need.

@CJacksonCowart

sports@dailytarheel.com