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2017 Orlando Magic Free Agency Preview: The Small Forwards

By Ryan Doyle

Apr 8, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Terrence Ross (31) takes a shot in the second half as Indiana Pacers forward CJ Miles (0) defends at Amway Center. Indiana Pacers won 127-112. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Terrence Ross (31) takes a shot in the second half as Indiana Pacers forward CJ Miles (0) defends at Amway Center. Indiana Pacers won 127-112. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /
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James Johnson, Miami Heat
Mar 3, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward James Johnson (16) blocks a shot by Orlando Magic guard Mario Hezonja (8) during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando defeated Miami 110-99. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

James Johnson, Miami Heat

Per Game Table
Season Age Tm Pos G MP FG% 3P% eFG% FT% TRB AST STL BLK TOV PTS
2016-17 29 MIA PF 76 27.4 .479 .340 .535 .707 4.9 3.6 1.0 1.1 2.3 12.8
Career 474 19.7 .477 .296 .508 .693 3.4 1.8 0.8 1.0 1.4 7.5

Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 6/27/2017.

Seemingly out of nowhere, James Johnson put together a career year for the Miami Heat. He is going to cash in this offseason and for good reason.

The veteran proved he could defend both forward positions and did enough on the offensive end to make defenses respect him.

During Miami’s hot streak last season, Johnson turned back the clock and played the best ball of his career. He averaged an impressive 12.8 points per game, 4.9 rebounds per game and 3.6 assists per game last year.

For the Magic, Johnson could slide in at both small forward and power forward. Something that the Magic desperately need as they wait for Isaac to find his role for the team. At the moment, Aaron Gordon is the only sure option at power forward and is in need of a reliable backup.

Due to his strong play last season, Johnson may be out of Orlando’s price range coming off his one-year, $4-million contract. But, with a pay increase, his ability to play both forward positions is something that has to be near the top of Orlando’s wish list.