AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Rookie James Johnson (partial tear of plantar fascia tendon) was a surprise starter for tonight's game with the Detroit Pistons.
Johnson worked out before the game and looked good. He convinced coach Vinny Del Negro he was ready to go and was inserted into the starting lineup.
Johnson certainly looked healthy at the start of the game, registering six points and five rebounds in the first quarter.
Johnson missed Saturday's game, but said he would play as soon as the pain subsided enough to let play without hampering the team.
James Johnson is showing dramatic improvement these last few weeks. His playing last night with the severity of his injury is really impressive. I think we have a "winner" in this goy.