James Johnson (PF/SF, MIN): Week 18 Waiver Wire Pickups

Minnesota Timberwolves forward James Johnson is a worthy consideration as a fantasy basketball waiver wire pickup heading into Week 18 of the NBA season.

BALLER MOVE: Add in 14-Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 7% of leagues

ANALYSIS: James Johnson has barely had a cup of coffee with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The 11-year journeyman has suited up only thrice for Minny, as he was acquired via trade on Feb. 6, just over a week ago. But, his three game sample size with the T-Wolves implies that the squad envisions Johnson playing heavy minutes for the foreseeable future. Johnson is averaging 26.7 minutes per game with his new team, and he logged 32 in Minnesota's last contest before the All-Star break.

His best performance with the blue and white thus far came during Johnson's T-Wolves debut against the Clippers. The 32-year-old collected 15 points, five assists, three rebounds and a pair of steals in 20 minutes off the bench. Johnson's all-around play was key to Minnesota's surprisingly resounding 142-115 victory over one of the best in the West.

He is benefiting from an opportunity that the Heat were not willing to offer. Johnson played only 15.6 minutes a night in Miami this season and was no longer a mainstay in Coach Spoelstra's rotation. Compared to his time with the Heat in 2019-20, Johnson's numbers have improved across the board since departing to the Twin Cities. Per game splits of 9.3 points, five rebounds, 4.3 assists, two steals and 1.3 blocks with Minnesota prove he has the ability to make an impact in 14-Team Leagues.

The Timberwolves lack of frontcourt depth will allow Johnson to continue to see signficant run time following the All-Star break. His capability to stuff the stat sheet and contribute on both ends makes him an attractive option in deeper formats.