With today being the deadline for teams to waive players on partial/non-guaranteed contracts, one name to keep an eye on for the Indiana Pacers is James Johnson. The 37-year-old re-signed with the Pacers in the offseason on a one-year, $2.1 million contract that is partially guaranteed.
Johnson has only appeared in six games this season. On the year, he is averaging 1.3 points in 3.8 minutes. His best game of the season was during a loss to the Boston Celtics when he recorded four points on three shots and one block. Naturally, waiving Johnson could make sense for the Pacers for financial flexibility, even if they opt to bring him back during the season. However, according to head coach Rick Carlisle, Pacers fans should not expect that to happen.
Rick Carlisle confirms James Johnson 'is not going anywhere'
According to Indianapolis Star's Dustin Dopirak, Carlisle spoke about the possibility of moving on from the Pacers. Carlisle made it clear that Johnson will remain with the team and that they "need him."
Asked Rick Carlisle about James Johnson with Jan. 7 deadline coming up to waive players on non-guaranteed contracts to avoid paying the full guarantee. "He's not going anywhere. We need him."
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) January 6, 2025
Furthermore, in a separate tweet, Dopirak mentioned that, while it is a possibility, he does not think the Pacers will waive Johnson and bring him back later on unless they make another move ahead of the trade deadline.
Oh I know. I asked in part because I talked to Tony about this. But I don't think they'll waive him before this deadline. But if they make a move at the trade deadline that requires him to be waived and brought back they'll certainly do exactly what you just described again.
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) January 7, 2025
Though Johnson plays a minimal role on the court and will not get much playing time in the playoffs, he still provides value to the Pacers. He is a seasoned veteran who has the respect of his teammates and the coaching staff. Additionally, he plays an enforcer role that is beneficial for a team that is young like the Pacers. Keeping him through the season would make sense for Indiana.
The Pacers could waive Johnson for roster and financial flexibility, especially considering that they are finally starting to get hot and are primed for another playoff run. But by the sound of things, the Pacers value Johnson's presence too much to even entertain this idea. Instead, they would likely move on from James Wiseman, who could realistically be on his way out.
Johnson is now in his third straight season with the Pacers and is unlikely to go anywhere this season. At this point, it is fair to assume the Wyoming native will retire as a member of the Pacers. Until then, however, he will continue to be a veteran leader for the team as they aim to bring a title to Indiana this year.