Grading the Miami Heat a quarter through the season

By Simon Smith | Dec 7, 2016

Nov 1, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat guard Tyler Johnson (8) celebrates after making a three point basket against the Sacramento Kings during overtime at American Airlines Arena. The Miami Heat defeat the Sacramento Kings 108-96 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

James Johnson

Season numbers: 9.9 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.9 APG, 46.8 FG%, 34.4 3P%, 24.4 MPG, 20 GP

Johnson has demonstrated himself to be a more than valuable contributor off the bench for the Heat. Now playing for his fifth team in his eight season, Johnson has been somewhat of a journeyman through his career. But it’s amazing what can happen when a player is shown complete faith by the coaching staff in charge.

Johnson is experiencing the best season of his career, demonstrating a terrific amount of versatility on both ends of the floor. Aside from an early season struggle (three-game span averaging 1.3 points, five rebounds and 19 minutes per game while shooting 1-of-13 overall), Johnson has been a revelation.

Again, this is an example of what can happen when a player is given the confidence to play his natural game. In the ensuing 15 games following his early slump, Johnson posted 12.1 points, 4.8 rebounds per game in 25.9 minutes, shooting 51.6 percent from the field. Johnson has demonstrated a vast array of moves on the offensive end, and is able to switch onto a variety of players on the defensive end.

Unfortunately, Johnson has now joined the long list in the Miami injury ward. He has been ruled out for the coming three-game road trip.

Grade: B

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