Potential free agent replacements for James Johnson
By Simon Smith
JaMychal Green, Memphis Grizzlies
Green made tremendous strides last season, his third in the league. Starting 75 of his 77 games, Green averaged 8.9 points and 7.1 rebounds in 27.3 minutes per game. Furthermore, he shot 50.0 percent overall from the field and 37.9 percent from three-point range.
With the modern NBA in search of front court players who can stretch the floor, Green fit the bill in Memphis with new head coach David Fizdale. All-star forward Zach Randolph and his old school game were regulated to the bench, with the younger and much more athletic Green thrust into the starting lineup.
Prior to this season, Green had attempted 57 total three-pointers over 102 games. This season alone, Green attempted 145. On top of Green’s ability to shoot from the perimeter, his athletic ability on the defensive end enables him to guard a variety of player types and sizes. As coach Fizdale noted during last season:
"“He is a part of the identity and the fabric,” Fizdale said. “I think he’s a future first team all-defender. I think he’s that swiss army knife defender that teams are always looking for, so he’s been great for us.”"
From an offensive standpoint, Green’s premier game last season came during a road win against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Playing 30 minutes, Green notched a career-high 29 points and seven rebounds, which included hitting 8-of-11 from the field and 12-of-12 from the free-throw line. While he hit just one three-pointer in this game, Green managed to hit two or more three-pointers on 14 occasions last season.
Recently, Fizdale added further praise for Green:
"“I’ve actually held JaMychal back a little bit, because I feel he has some ability to score more. Finding him some touches can be tough because of all the options we have, but he’s been invaluable. His ability to make open threes, defend multiple positions, loyal, being tough. He’s diligent about being in shape and working on his game, a fantastic complement to our group.”"
That’s some high praise, particularly considering Green’s relatively short period thus far in the NBA. The Grizzlies will be able to make a qualifying offer, and it’s fair to say that Green will be offered plenty more than his recent $980,431 salary. The Heat, however, could make Green an offer and hope Memphis doesn’t match it.