Utah Jazz: Top free agent prospects from across the league

Jan 20, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) and center Rudy Gobert (back) celebrate during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 20, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) and center Rudy Gobert (back) celebrate during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 5, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; Miami Heat forward James Johnson (16) celebrates a three point basket in the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. The Heat won 112-99. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 5, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; Miami Heat forward James Johnson (16) celebrates a three point basket in the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. The Heat won 112-99. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

James Johnson

If the Jazz were to add James Johnson, I would be one happy guy. He’s largely been a forgotten man for much of his career, but given ample opportunity in Miami last season, Johnson clearly showed his worth. He’s virtually a Swiss Army Knife at the power forward position, able to push the tempo, shoot and finish well, and defend multiple positions.

The versatility and energy that he would bring to this Jazz team would be incredible. Hypothetically, he could start at the power forward position while Derrick Favors would officially slide to backup center, helping the Jazz shore up both of those areas.

Unfortunately, financially that may not pan out whatsoever. Ignore the fact that the Heat have a great shot at re-signing him, but given the solid season James Johnson had last year especially following the All-Star break, the unrestricted free agent is likely going to be in for a significant payday.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that the Jazz couldn’t add him, but it likely means that if they can afford him they failed to make a bigger splash elsewhere. Although, adding an under-the-radar talent such as James Johnson could very well to be a bigger splash in its own right than many would presume.

With Favors struggling with injuries last season, Trey Lyles failing to find any kind of consistent shooting stroke and both Boris Diaw and Joe Johnson aging, James Johnson would be an incredible addition. It’s most certainly a long shot, but including him into the Jazz mix is certainly on my personal wish list.