Return or Burn: Which free agents should the Pacers bring back?
By Joe Lyon
A veteran that provides the experience and mindset for the team
Speaking of veterans, James Johnson is a veteran player that the Pacers have certainly benefited greatly from. He brings a level of leadership and toughness to the team, even though he rarely plays. The trade that brought in George Hill cause the Pacers to temporarily waive Johnson only to bring him back after the trade deadline.
And it seems that he fits will with the team culture as Tyrese had glowing things to say about Johnson:
Tyrese Haliburton on who his best friends on the team are:
— Alex Golden (@AlexGoldenNBA) February 16, 2023
“Buddy Hield, James Johnson and Oshae Brissett.”#BoomBaby pic.twitter.com/c43mBGCGP1
Because of this, and the amount that Johnson would command (the minimum) it is likely that he would fit in well in the short term and would be a valuable community piece for the team. However, the team has multiple draft picks in the upcoming season and it may not be feasible to bring him back and sign our new draft picks.
Our decision? Return him if roster spot is available, but don’t go to great lengths to create the spot.