NBA
Don’t Call it a Comeback! Joe Johnson Eyes NBA Return
When Joe Johnson left the NBA in 2018, many thought they’d seen the last of “Iso Joe” in the NBA
But after a standout performance in the BIG3 league in which he captured MVP, it looks like Joe Johnson might be heading back to the NBA. Johnson worked out for the 76ers on Thursday, and has workouts scheduled with the Clippers, Bucks, and Nuggets as well. The Pelicans are also monitoring Johnson’s situation, and could bring him in to add another veteran to their bench. Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry and general manager David Griffin even took in one of Johnson’s BIG3 games. While the level of interest by each team is unknown, it is known that there are other teams that have interest but are waiting to see some of his workout results.
Although Johnson is 38, he caught the attention of many during his time with the BIG3. He lead the league in points, assists, field goals, and 4-pointers (yes, that’s a thing in the BIG3) while also hitting a handful of clutch game winning shots. While Johnson was known for that in the NBA, his performance was extremely eye opening for many. After many wrote him off as a washed up veteran that was done in the NBA, Johnson went out to find new life, and he did just that.
But what does he have left in the tank?
While Joe Johnson is no longer the all-around star he once was, he can still be a very valuable veteran. He understandably won’t be viewed as a starter by any team, but he could be viewed as a sixth man. His last three teams, the Heat, Jazz, and Rockets, all received decent points off the bench from Johnson but not much else. If Johnson can provide around ten points off the bench, any team will be very happy.
The most important thing Johnson will have to prove is his endurance is still there. Playing a full speed NBA game is a lot different than the 3 on 3 games Johnson has been playing. He will need to prove he can consistently keep up on defense and run the court repeatedly. While this may sound minor, not many teams will be able to afford a player that isn’t fully in-shape. Johnson didn’t show any rust in the BIG3, but he might show some as he familiarizes himself with the NBA game.
Best Fit?
To me, Johnson’s best fit is a team he already played for: the Brooklyn Nets. After being traded to Brooklyn, Johnson spent 3 and a half years with the Nets. Even now, three years after his time with the team, he is still a fan favorite. While the Nets haven’t made any contact with Johnson yet, that can obviously change very quickly. After Wilson Chandler’s sudden PED suspension, the Nets suddenly are in need of a bench piece for at least 25 games. And while they have been publicly linked to Carmelo Anthony, Johnson would be a much smarter signing.
Wherever Johnson ends up in his return, his story is truly awe-inspiring. Given the choice between retirement and working hard on a return, he took the much more difficult option. His play not only put himself back on the map, but gave the BIG3 the credibility it was seeking. Johnson’s return to the NBA always seemed doubtful, but now it has more life than ever before. Iso Joe’s return to the NBA will me a memorable one!
Written by Ryan Hess
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