Summary

After having a breakout season in '16-'17 that earned Johnson a 4-year, $60 million contract, Johnson has been unable to get back to that level of play. His shooting percentages have gone down, and hasn't shown the off-the-bounce game that he showed that season. In addition, he hasn't been able to stay on the court, playing in fewer games each season since '16-'17, including only playing in 32 games this past season.

 

While Johnson was never the most athletic player, he has good size and strength for a power forward. However, it seems Johnson as lost a step (at least) as he has aged into his thirties, and that has hurt his offensive effectiveness, and makes it difficult for him to stay in front of ball-handlers on defense.

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Cap Considerations

Johnson has a player option for his $16 million salary in 2020-2021, and will be an unrestricted free agent with a $23 million cap hold and full Bird rights if he opts out.

 

If Johnson opts out, the Timberwolves could actually have some cap space, but only if Johnson leaves. Johnson is unlikely to opt out, but if he does it likely means he has a long-term offer at a similar annual value.

 

If he opts out, Johnson will certainly demand a starting salary of more than the full $9.3 million Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception, which means only teams with cap space will be able to sign him. If Johnson and an over-the-cap team have mutual interest, sign-and-trade options can be explored.