Miami Heat: 5 goals for James Johnson in 2017-18

3. Incorporate more ball-handling duties

Granted, this is probably more in the hands of the Heat coaching staff than Johnson himself. But nonetheless, it’s something that needs serious consideration.

Despite his 3.6 assists per game being a career high, Johnson ranked sixth on the team for time in possession, averaging just 2.4 minutes per game of having the ball in his hands. In order to make the most of Johnson’s creativity at his height, this needs to increase.

Last season, Johnson had 18 games of six or more assists, including a season-high 12 assists against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Heat posted an 11-7 record over these games.

But possibly the most noteworthy accomplishment was that as his body shape changed and conditioning improved, Johnson’s assist numbers continued to rise. Over the second half of the season, when the Heat compiled an amazing 30-11 record, Johnson averaged 4.3 assists in 29.3 minutes during this time.

Considering the Heat do not feature a recognized backup point guard, it seems logical to increase the amount of time the ball is in Johnson’s hands. With a season in Miami under his belt, and an increased familiarity with his teammates and the system, look for Johnson to become an even more featured part of the offense this coming season.