Pelicans: Why the Pels should definitely re-sign James Johnson

New Orleans Pelicans: James Johnson can play two or more positions

The Pelicans have next to zero depth at either of the forward positions behind Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.

Naji Marshall has emerged as a potential backup for Ingram but the Pelicans still need some depth at power forward.

Johnson can play both positions depending on the matchup, and can even guard some centers. Zion and Ingram were durable this season and are going to be playing big minutes, so the Pelicans don’t necessarily need guys who are going to play a ton off the bench.

James Johnson is appealing because he can play all over, can back up both guys and gives the Pelicans a lot of flexibility with their bench units.

Johnson isn’t going to be playing big minutes, which is fine, but he can be effective in short bursts, sub in for either guy or even at center in small-ball lineups.

He also helps fill a couple of the Pelicans’ biggest needs.