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Amir Johnson, 76ers agree to a 1-year, $11 million deal, per report

Philadelphia solidifies their bench with a quality backup for a more than affordable price.

Boston Celtics v Phoenix Suns Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Amir Johnson and the Philadelphia 76ers have agreed to a one-year deal worth $11 million, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Johnson may complete Philadelphia’s spending this free agency, as their roster is now set at 15 players barring any further moves.

Johnson joins recently signed J.J. Redick and top overall draft pick Markelle Fultz as key incoming additions for Philadelphia, who should have a legitimate chance to make the playoffs if their young players perform up to expectations.

Before this season, the 30-year-old Johnson had spent two years with the Boston Celtics after a six-year stint in Toronto. Johnson, one of the last prep-to-pro players joining the NBA straight from high school, was originally drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the second round of the 2005 NBA draft and is entering his 13th NBA season.

What does Johnson provide for the 76ers?

Johnson is a really solid, all-around player who could fit into most team’s rotations as a backup big, like he will in Philadelphia. He’s a good rebounder who plays physical defense, he has added a three-point shot to his game if you leave him open (41 percent on about one attempt per game last year), and you can even trust him to help initiate action and make smart passes on the perimeter.

What about his contract?

Right now, Philadelphia is very careful to maintain their long-term flexibility over the next couple seasons, willing to overpay veterans in exchange for one-year deals. Johnson fits that role perfectly, just like Redick’s one-year, $23 million signed earlier on Saturday did. Philadelphia will still have loads of cap space next season, too.

What holes does Johnson fill in Philly?

The 76ers are incredibly young, and a few smart veterans in the locker room is important to keep everyone in check. With Gerald Henderson — who played that role last year — maybe playing himself into a longer-term contract, Johnson is a good fit there while being a pretty good role player, too.