While players like Kobe Bryant, Paul Pierce and Kyrie Irving are thought of as masters of the clutch within recent memory, Joe Johnson has been the silent assassin no one seems to think about when it comes to closing out games.
The man known as “JJ” or “ISO Joe” has been the Utah Jazz‘s best-kept secret, and it didn't take long to reveal why — capping a 21-point, three-steal performance in Game 1 against the L.A. Clippers with a soft-touch, game-winning buzzer-beater in the lane.
Joe Johnson wins the game at the buzzer! 🚨 #SCtop10 pic.twitter.com/fX4cjZ9rJS
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 16, 2017
To the bewilderment of most, Johnson has proven himself on various occasions throughout his career, making this the eighth game-winning buzzer-beater in the last 10 seasons — the most by any player in the NBA.
Joe Johnson is clutch. pic.twitter.com/aI4Ib9XIBz
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 16, 2017
Talk about a clutch gene.
Whether it was his stint with the Phoenix Suns, Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, or this reduced role with the Jazz — Joe Johnson has never lost his flair for the dramatic and he showed just why when the stakes were at their highest.
The Arkansas Razorback likely won't have a Hall of Fame-worthy resume — but for those who know the sport, he's one of the best with the basketball when it's time to put on a cape.
Joe Johnson has had the most under-the-radar great NBA career.
— Connor Letourneau (@Con_Chron) April 16, 2017