5 Dream Targets For Cleveland Cavaliers In 2017 NBA Free Agency

Amir Johnson, PF, Boston Celtics

This offseason, the Cavaliers are going to have to prioritize finding some capable depth in the frontcourt. Kevin Love is obviously the star at power forward, but is a bit injury-prone. As for his backup, Derrick Williams is a free agent in 2017 and may opt to follow the money out of town.

If that happens, Cleveland is left with Channing Frye as the only experienced backup big man. I can assure you that won’t fly if the Cavaliers plan on being contenders yet again in 2018. That’s why they need to go out and find a quality power forward who can step up when Love is hurt or needs some rest.

Look no further than Amir Johnson, who is currently an underrated asset for the Boston Celtics. Now I know that the 12-year NBA veteran is a starter, and likely won’t be interested in signing on as a backup. If money weren’t an issue and he was willing to accept a bench role, though, I can assure you the Cavaliers would be interest in acquiring his services.

Johnson is a much different beast than Love, focusing on stout defense and quiet, efficient play on the offensive end. He’s not going to put up huge points or haul in double-digit rebounds on a regular basis. However, he will put on his hard hat every game and bring a contagious work ethic to the Cleveland locker room.

If the Cavaliers want to keep their momentum rolling into next season, Johnson makes perfect sense. That assumes, of course, that his likely high asking price wouldn’t be an issue since this is a dream scenario.