Amir Johnson's contract is a humongous steal for the Celtics
Amir Johnson's per game numbers never popped off the page, but Boston's decision to sign him to a two-year, $24 million contract looks like a stroke of genius.
The long, 6'9" forward fills a hole in the paint the Celtics have had for quite some time. When healthy he can protect the rim and defend on the perimeter. He's versatile, and also has great hands that allow him to finish around the basket.
Here's more on why the contract is so awesome for Boston, per Bleacher Report's Michael Pina:
"He’s 6’9” and 28 years old, coming off a relatively down year that saw various injuries chew away at his consistency. Johnson appeared in 75 games, but snapped a two-season streak of surpassing 2,000 minutes. He averaged an efficient 9.3 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. But here’s the thing about this deal: It’s kind of amazing. If Johnson stays healthy and rekindles what made him so fantastic before last season's struggles, Boston has itself a legitimate starting power forward to help nudge them toward a second straight playoff berth. Or, equally golden, the benefit of dangling a contract this rich could net the Celtics more desirable future assets at the trade deadline."
Whether on the court or in a trade, this contract (and player) should help Boston be a much better team over the next few seasons. Pending any moves the Celtics make over the next few weeks, Johnson should be their starting power forward on opening night.
(h/t: Bleacher Report)
Photo Credit: Dale Zanine/USA TODAY Sports
