As the LA Clippers prepare for their first round match-up with the Utah Jazz, here is how Wesley Johnson needs to contribute for a successful series victory.
After many discussions of the LA Clippers wanting to deal Wesley Johnson by this years trade deadline, nothing happened. Los Angeles stayed put and did not make any trades this season, feeling content with their current roster. Wesley Johnson needs to contribute to the team’s success any way he can.
Last year, Johnson averaged just under 7 points per game with 3.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists. He shot 40.4% from the field, and shooting a decent 33.3% from deep. His free throw shooting can use improvement, only 65.2%, but he was playing good minutes at 21 a game.
Many were hoping Wes could improve his numbers, since coming from the other team the Clippers share Staples Center with. However that was not the case, according to basketball reference. His numbers went drastically down since switching LA jerseys.
After signing a three-year, $18 Million contract this past summer, Johnson’s numbers took a free fall, especially his minutes. This year is a bit of a let down for Wesley. Expecting numbers would go up when switching from a mediocre team, to a role player with a contending squad. Particularly his shooting percentages really fell off.
For example, a lot of hype surrounded Johnson’s ability to hit 50% of his three-point shots from the corner. But, just imagine how many of his other three’s he missed to equal out a total of 33% pt percentage. Now Wes plays just under 12 minutes a game, and that is a huge difference compared to other years. Every season since coming into the NBA Wes has played well over 20 minutes a game, so something about his recent play is off.
Johnson is now average a career low on all shooting percentages, including 37% from the field, an an unappealing 25% from deep. Even his free throw percentage is getting closer to DeAndre Jordan’s, at 64%. Wes is also averaging 2.7 points per game. Yikes. Wesley Johnson needs to find his stroke so he is ready come playoff time. This Saturday April 15th when the series starts in Los Angeles.