When it was made public that Chris Bosh would miss time for the Miami Heat due to health reasons, many believed they were in trouble. Bosh was averaging 19.1 points and 7.4 rebounds. He is a big shot maker, solid defensive player and a leader. The 31-year-old has missed just over a month, and in that period, the Heat have won 10 of 14 games. Instead of falling apart, the Heat have elevated their play.

A big reason why the Heat have found so much success has been the play of Joe Johnson. Johnson was signed by the Heat after the Brooklyn Nets waived him in a buyout agreement. The Heat knew they weren’t getting the seven-time All-Star when they signed the 34-year-old, but he is still a reliable player who can play multiple positions. Johnson still has plenty left in the tank, and he is proving it right now.

On the season, Johnson is averaging 12.3 points and 3.9 assists. In nine games with the Heat, he has been much better as he is averaging 15.8 points on 59 percent from three-point range. Johnson adds another shot maker to a team with players who are accustomed to making some big shots such as Dwyane Wade, Luol Deng and Bosh.

One can expect Johnson to play a role similar to Paul Pierce with Washington last season, as he will be called on to defend multiple positions and to play the “closer” role. He can also serve as a mentor to younger players such as Josh Richardson, Hassan Whiteside and Justise Winslow.

Miami has all the talent to compete with Cleveland and Toronto in the Eastern Conference. The key will be if Bosh returns and Johnson remains playing at a high level.