Despite rival free agency offers, the high-flying forward returns to South Beach on a two-way deal, betting on the Miami Heat’s renowned developmental system to secure a permanent roster spot.
MIAMI, Fla. – In the midst of the Miami Heat landing Giannis Antetokounmpo and Klay Thompson, free agent forward Keshad Johnson re-signed on a two-way contract, the team officially announced last Thursday.
The 25-year-old is coming off a productive season: 4.3 points on 49 percent shooting and 1.9 rebounds in 32 games. The numbers aren’t flashy, but Johnson gained experience as more of a rotational player. However, it wasn’t enough to land a standard contract.
When speaking to local media through Zoom on Wednesday, Johnson revealed that other teams made offers, but it wasn’t enough to pull him away.
“There were opportunities that presented themselves to me in free agency,” he said. “I felt comfortable here with the Heat and I know what it takes to get to the next level. I wasn’t ready to go on another step and I feel like there’s unfinished business here.”
Johnson’s two-way contract makes him eligible for a maximum of 50 regular-season games, plus split time with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, the Heat’s G League affiliate. He’s played there before and showed flashes of potential. Last season, with the Skyforce, Johnson averaged 17.4 points on 52.5 percent shooting, 8.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.8 steals, and 1.9 blocks in eight games (all starts).
A big step toward securing a rotational role, potentially reclaiming a standard contract, is consistent three-point shooting. Although Johnson’s game primarily revolves around the arc, floor spacing next to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo is critical. However, the high-flying forward has proven to be impactful in the paint.
Johnson is athletic enough to catch lobs, play in the dunker’s spot, and has a 6-6, 230-pound frame to back down defenders in the post. He understands, through clear communication with the organization, that nothing is promised. However, Johnson has gotten the promotion call before and is confident in repeating the same individual success.
Despite regressing to a two-way slot, the Heat are arguably the best situation for him. They have a case to be the best at developing overlooked talent. Duncan Robinson, Max Strus, Gabe Vincent, Caleb Martin, and Haywood Highsmith were all undrafted prospects, went through the Heat’s system, and then carved out expanded NBA careers.
Johnson will likely split time between the G League and the main roster throughout the upcoming season. He understands the meaning of staying ready, which gives him a head start to pushing for a second promotion.
Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes, Miami Heat, and Miami Marlins for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
