NBA: Handing Out Awards For First Round Of 2017 NBA Playoffs

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Apr 30, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Jamal Crawford (11) defends Utah Jazz forward Joe Johnson (6) as he drives to the basket in the second period of game seven of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

Sixth Man of the First Round: Joe Johnson, Utah Jazz

Prior to the 2017 NBA Playoffs, Joe Johnson’s reputation was defined by the massive contract that he received from the Atlanta Hawks. It was a burden that the Hawks and Brooklyn Nets both carried throughout his lucrative tenure, albeit as he became a seven-time All-Star.

What was lost in the madness of his contract, however, is what Johnson thoroughly reestablished during the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs: he’s undeniably clutch.

Johnson took over Game 1 by recording 21 points, three rebounds, three assists, three steals, and a block in a 97-95 road victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. He shot 9-of-14 from the field and 3-of-4 from 3-point range, but those numbers were just a preview of his greatness.

With Rudy Gobert out and Utah in need of a Game 1 victory, Johnson drove the lane and buried a floater to give the Jazz a crucial 97-95 victory to start the series.

With Utah down 2-1, Johnson took over Game 4 to save the Jazz with 28 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a series-evening 105-98 win. He followed with 14 points and eight rebounds, including another two clutch fourth quarter shots, during the 96-92 win in Game 6 that staved off elimination.

Johnson saved Utah from disaster in three separate games, and closed out the series with 10 points, seven rebounds, and five assists in the decisive 104-91 victory in Game 7.