NBA Free Agency Preview: 10 Lesser Talked About Names
Amir Johnson
Amir Johnson (2.4 nERD) didn't really wow anyone this year with his play on the court or his stats off the court. Johnson was part of a platoon of big men for the Raptors, so he only saw 26.4 minutes of action per game while failing to reach double digit scoring per game (9.3) for the first time in three years. Johnson also was less of a factor defensively than he has been in recent years.
Johnson finished with a mere 0.8 blocks per game -- short of his 1.4 and 1.1 swats in his previous two seasons -- while posting his worst Defensive Rating (107) in four years. However, the 6'9" forward managed his best Effective Field Goal Percentage (59.2%) and True Shooting Percentage (60.3%) since 2010. He showed signs of improvement even as he struggled this year.
As a result, Johnson could come at a discount to teams looking for a valuable big. On the other hand, it seems like the Raptors might retain Johnson as they failed to select his replacement in the draft. Whether he stays or whether he goes, Amir Johnson might be ready for a bounce back season.