Joe Johnson will always be remembered as the NBA player never afraid to take the shot. But at 38 and NBA teams focusing on young players, his chances of making another return may not be that high. Regardless, seven-time All-Star believes he still has what it takes for another tour of duty.
Johnson gained attention last year when he wound up being the Big3 MVP. He was part of the Triplets championship team, where he produced eye-popping numbers and got invites to work out with several teams. He ended up joining the Detroit Pistons, where he was never really a factor.
In a report from TMZ Sports, Johnson reasoned that the timing was just off. His body was not ready and that he was dealing with injuries. For him, these were the reasons why he got waived last October.
"I was banged up with a lot of injuries, didn't get a chance to really rest," Joe tells us. "So, it kinda hurt me. Which is why I got waived. But, I'm cool with it."
More than two months have passed since then and now Johnson feels that he is in better shape. And while that sounds like a pitch to attract attention, the 6-foot-7 swingman says that he will not beg to be signed by any team.
"Like I said, if an opportunity comes about and it's worth it and a team is serious, of course I'll jump on that opportunity."
Moving forward, Johnson's chances of signing with another team are pretty low. Though some teams in search of a shooter can give him a try, his level of conditioning will always be a concern. While he did overwhelm in the Big3, it remains that the NBA is an entirely different avenue. Even if he does get a call-up, he is likely to spend more time on the bench than on the basketball court.
With career averages of 16.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, most NBA teams may be better off giving young players a chance to strut their stuff. Like it or not, age is now a big factor that teams factor in. If not youth, there are names like J.R. Smith and Andre Iguodala in the free-agent market. As one can see, Johnson faces bigger odds now getting back to the NBA and hopefully ending his basketball career on a bright note.
