Amir Johnson’s departure – how much does this hurt Raptors?

Free agency in the NBA kicked off at midnight on July 1, and there were a host of players signing deals with new teams. As our Lindsay Dunn already noted, Amir Johnson, the longest serving Toronto Raptor, departed our team to join the Boston Celtics. The Raps’ starting power forward in 284 games over 6 seasons, Amir accepted a two-year, $24M offer from GM Danny Ainge. Please let’s not accuse him of disloyalty – would you turn down that kind of money, particularly when you know your current employer isn’t going to offer anywhere close to that to keep you around?

Apr 21, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Washington Wizards center Kevin Serapin (13) fouls Toronto Raptors forward Amir Johnson (15) in the third quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. Wizards beat raptors 117 – 106. Mandatory Credit: Peter Llewellyn-USA TODAY Sports

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The loss of Amir brings pain to many longtime fans. He was more than a player. Amir made the effort to become deeply immersed in the life of our city, participating in such events as the zombie walk and giving away Drake CDs he’d purchased to fans. He and Patrick Patterson have something of the Renaissance Man sheen about themselves.

On the court, Amir was an awkward yet effective contributor. His statistics don’t blow you away, but he was a consistent rebounder, defender and occasional scorer. Amir was a team player to his bones, unencumbered by ego. He wouldn’t blow a gasket if he didn’t start, and didn’t need the ball on offense. Amir was always improving his skills. Him trying a 3-point shot a few seasons ago would likely have resulted in his immediate substitution, but he made 19 of his 46 attempts last year, a healthy 41.3%. His versatility was one of the main reasons I hoped the Raps could retain him. I thought he would be admirably suited to the role of first big man off the bench. It’s moot now, but I believe he could anchor a small-ball defense when Jonas Valanciunas needed a rest.

As we’re drying our tears about his departure, let’s note his key stats were down last year. Given how much pro ball Amir has already played (10 seasons, though he’s only 28), he’ll be hard-pressed simply to maintain his level of production wearing Celtic green. Though he can still contribute on the court, Amir’s greatest value to the rapidly rebuilding squad in Boston might be as big brother to the array of kids their lineup features.

Both the Raptors and Toronto were better with Amir Johnson around. He’s gone now, but he’ll never be booed when he returns. I wouldn’t be in the least surprised if he were to resurface as an assistant coach or Public Relations guy with our team when his playing days are done. We can hope, and let’s cheer Amir in the meantime.

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