Miami Heat 2016-17 player preview: James Johnson
By Simon Smith
What Johnson does well
Despite opportunities being limited throughout his career, Johnson has still managed to demonstrate what he can contribute to a team. Last season, 50 percent of Johnson’s field goals were attempted at the rim, per Basketball Reference.
Converting on 63.6 percent of these shots represented a good return for a player his size. When he experienced greater opportunities in the 2014-15 season, he converted on 77.8 percent of attempts at the rim, an outstanding return. Most of these attempts are comprised of back-door cuts, dunks and rolling lay-ups amongst others.
Johnson’s defensive versatility is another standout attribute. Per 36 minuets for his career, Johnson has averages of 1.9 blocks per game and 1.4 steals per game. He has shown the versatility to not only protect the rim, but also cover perimeter shooters with both close-outs and blocks.
With the Heat having always preached defence-first, the Heat culture and Johnson should be a great fit.