Ivan Johnson spent last year playing in China for the Zhejiang Golden Bulls. He was hoping to return to the NBA last season, but did not draw much interest from teams, which led to his decision to play overseas. He will now make a return to the NBA, getting a chance to play for the Dallas Mavericks.
Ivan Johnson has signed a two-year, partially guaranteed deal with the Mavericks, according to RealGM’s Shams Charania.
The Mavericks acquire a hardworking forward with endless energy and hustle. He will be a solid backup for Dirk Nowitzki. Dallas was originally going to have Rashard Lewis as their backup power forward until they voided his contract due to his knee injury.
Lewis would have been more of a three-point shooting, stretch four, but Johnson is going to be an absolutely different player. He plays off the ball and gets most of his points with his energy, gobbling down rebounds, and converting on second chance opportunities.
Last time Ivan Johnson was in the NBA, it was during the 2012-2013 season where he played for the Atlanta Hawks, averaging 6.6 points and 3.9 rebounds in 15 minutes per game. He is extremely productive and efficient. The Dallas Mavericks continue to stack their roster with quality players.
Ivan Johnson will be playing on a partially guaranteed contract, which will give the Mavericks the opportunity to waive him mid-way through the season if they are not satisfied with his play.