Training camps

[pacers33granger]

Not a fan of Johnson making it. It's not a big deal as we can just waive him whenever but he doesn't strike me as a good vet and he's not playable. I feel like there should've been better options out there.

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Probably one of the best vets out there at positions of need (SF/PF) that would take a fully non guaranteed deal with the Pacers. Add in that Carlisle trusts him and sees him as that vet locker room guy, and you can see the connection.

Either way, he’s likely waived as soon as we make a trade, or if Kendall Brown or Trevelin Queen prove themselves ready for a promotion. Likely waived before his guarantee date if that comes first.

I have Justin Anderson as a better player right now and a better fit. Harkless is out there now and is better. Same for Ariza, Rodney Hood, Snell. Solo Hill is available...

If Johnson were a leader in some ways, I'd get it, but I don't see that. He's not a malcontent or anything but I don't see him making a difference in the locker room.

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[Wizop]

I think you trust Carlisle on the leadership issue, but a weekend waiver claim wouldn't be shocking

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[Scoot McGroot]

Not a fan of Johnson making it. It's not a big deal as we can just waive him whenever but he doesn't strike me as a good vet and he's not playable. I feel like there should've been better options out there.

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Probably one of the best vets out there at positions of need (SF/PF) that would take a fully non guaranteed deal with the Pacers. Add in that Carlisle trusts him and sees him as that vet locker room guy, and you can see the connection.

Either way, he’s likely waived as soon as we make a trade, or if Kendall Brown or Trevelin Queen prove themselves ready for a promotion. Likely waived before his guarantee date if that comes first.

I have Justin Anderson as a better player right now and a better fit. Harkless is out there now and is better. Same for Ariza, Rodney Hood, Snell. Solo Hill is available...

If Johnson were a leader in some ways, I'd get it, but I don't see that. He's not a malcontent or anything but I don't see him making a difference in the locker room.

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I think you’re listing a lot of guys that were not available at the time Johnson signed, or that would take a fully non-guaranteed (heck, exhibit 9!) contract with the Pacers. You’re focusing on better players, and you’re right, but they won’t sign for a non guaranteed deal (since they’re better). And Justin wasn’t in camp with anyone at all, so I don’t know that he’s a better player, necessarily. Carlisle also has a long term relationship with Justin, and chose Johnson over him.

Personally, I also think Johnson as a PF/C/SF was probably a target as they were in negotiations won a Turner deal.

But Johnson has been lauded as a solid locker room guy in the last years. Miami liked him there, and Dallas (with Carlisle) did too.