James Johnson re-signs with the Pacers for the rest of the season
Johnson has appeared in 12 games this season, but his real impact goes beyond the court. And that'll continue for the final 24 games.
James Johnson is back with the Pacers, as expected.
After clearing waivers over the weekend, he re-signed with the Pacers on Monday for the rest of the season.
The only reason he was waived on Thursday was to enable the front office to complete a trade that acquired George Hill, Jordan Nwora, Serge Ibaka and three second-round picks.
They waived Ibaka on Saturday, allowing for him to potentially join a contender. But an open roster spot was required to take back Ibaka and do the deal.
And still, Johnson sat courtside for their game on Friday against the Phoenix Suns to support his guys. “I care about this team regardless of what happens to me,” he told Fieldhouse Files.
“These guys know what they mean to me. Even throughout this whole process, I was getting texts throughout the day to make sure my family and me was OK. It’s just been a different thing that happened in my career.”
Johnson, 35, officially returned to the team on Monday prior to their game against the Utah Jazz. And now he’ll receive an additional salary, in addition to the $2.9 million he’s due for this season.
So it worked out for the Pacers and Johnson. They have 24 regular-season games remaining this season.
He’s the 15th man on the roster, but has had a strong impact on the bench and in the locker room with a young, inexperienced group.
“He instills confidence in everybody,” said third-year wing Aaron Nesmith. “No matter who you are and no matter what your role is, he always pushes confidence into everybody on this team. I think that goes a long way.”
By bringing him back, the roster is full once again with 15 players, plus two two-way contracts.