Potential free agent replacements for James Johnson
By Simon Smith
Danilo Gallinari, Denver Nuggets
Like Parker, Gallinari also has a history with knee surgery. The ACL in Gallinari’s left knee forced him to miss the entire 2013-14 season. Since his return, Gallinari has played just 59, 53 and 63 games respectively over the past three seasons.
Therefore, health has been a clear issue for Gallinari.
But when he has taken the court, Gallinari’s production has been exceptional.
This past season, Gallinari averaged 18.2 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 33.9 minutes per game. He hit at a 38.9 percent clip from downtown and an outstanding 90.2 percent from the free-throw line. Furthermore, his offensive rating (points per 100 possessions) of 112.1 ranked 12th among all forwards who played at least 25 minutes per game.
One of Gallinari’s premiere games this past season was a late season game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Playing 38 minutes, Gallinari notched 34 points and 10 rebounds, hitting 12-of-20 from the field and 4-of-9 from three-point range.
As can be seen from these highlights, Gallinari demonstrated a full array of options on the offensive end. Taking it to the hole, running off down-screens to catch and shoot, posting up and spotting up from three were just some of his skills on display.
Unlike Johnson, Gallinari is less of a facilitator, as evidenced by his career average of two assists per game. As an example, this past season, Gallinari dished out five or more assists on just three occasions. The fact that he ranked 33rd in usage rate among all forwards who played at least 25 minutes per game illustrates how much he plays off the ball.
Gallinari has a player option for next season to take up his $16.1 million contract. Still just 28, Gallinari is virtually certain to opt out his contract and the test the free agency market. A comparable contract from last season’s free agent is Ryan Anderson of the Houston Rockets.
Anderson signed a four-year, $80 million contract, primarily due to his abilities as a stretch 4. If the Heat finds themselves in search of a Johnson replacement, determining Gallinari’s value and whether or not he can stay on the court, will certainly be key deciding factors.