NBA free agency rumors: Raptors in on Amir Johnson?

Amir Johnson and the Toronto Raptors are reportedly interested in a reunion this summer.

Amir Johnson was a fan favorite in Toronto when he played with the Raptors from 2009-15. He was with them during the dark ages and with them when they climbed their way into the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference. He grew as a player as the Raptors grew as a team. But two years ago, he felt that he needed a change of scenery and decided to leave the single Canadian team for the Boston Celtics.

But in July, Johnson’s contract with the Celtics will be over, and there are reports saying that Johnson is interested in making his way back up north. The Raptors are also reportedly interested in bringing Johnson back.

Johnson, who was drafted by the Detroit Pistons right out high school in 2005 (the last player to be drafted out of high school in the NBA), played with the team for four years before being traded to the Raptors in 2009. In Toronto, he hustled his way into getting minutes, and then eventually into getting starts. He played hard every game, especially on the defensive end, and soon become a fan favorite for his heart and intensity. He averaged 8.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks with the Raptors.

Although bringing Johnson back would please many fans, it is not a top priority for the Raptors’ brass, as they are focused on re-signing Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka.

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However, if Toronto does decide to bring Johnson back, he will help add toughness to their team. He is also a mobile big man who can help them defend smaller lineups.

In his last two seasons, Johnson averaged 6.9 points and 5.5 rebounds in 21.4 minutes of play.

Are you interested in seeing Johnson make a return to the Raptors?