Dallas Mavericks: James Johnson adds some fire to the team

Dallas Mavericks: James Johnson adds some fire to the team

The Dallas Mavericks traded Delon Wright and Justin Jackson to acquire James Johnson in the offseason. They wanted to be a tougher team and improve the defense. Johnson has been a key part of the second unit so far.

The 33-year-old big man gives the Mavericks a different element. He is one of the most vocal players from the bench as evident by the first technical foul he picked up against the Hornets. Johnson also brings toughness and energy to the court.

The 6’7 forward was fined $40,000 on Jan. 1 for his role in an on-court scuffle against Charlotte. Johnson was ejected from the game. Let us take a closer look at the incident and what it means for the Mavericks going forward.

James Johnson adds fire to the Dallas Mavericks

Johnson received the fine for “deliberately pushing Cody Martin out of bounds, aggressively confronting him, and initiating the incident”, according to the NBA’s official release. Fans can see the video here.

Johnson was not the only player fined. Both Caleb and Cody Martin of the Hornets were punished for their roles in the altercation.

Johnson has a fire and edge that the Mavericks need. He is not afraid to get in someone’s face and be the team’s enforcer. They lacked that last season, especially in the playoffs when Marcus Morris was constantly trying to get under Luka Doncic’s skin. Johnson will put an end to those antics.

Expect the 33-year-old veteran to make a massive impact with his play too. He is tied for second on the team in assists through four games and tied for the lead in steals. Expect Johnson to find minutes and produce for the Mavs.

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