Report: Boston Celtics expected to show interest in Raptors' Amir Johnson

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Amir Johnson has been the heart and soul of the Toronto Raptors since joining the team in 2009, competing with a gritty determination and unparalleled passion that won over the masses in the Greater Toronto Area.

However, the 28-year-old is set to be an unrestricted free agent, with the Boston Celtics reportedly interested in signing him, according to Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix.

The only true power forwards on Boston's depth chart last season were Brandon Bass and Jonas Jerebko, and both bigs are also entering unrestricted free agency. The team used their two 2015 first-round draft picks on guards Terry Rozier and R.J. Hunter, and waited until the second round to take a 4 in LSU's Jordan Mickey.

It would break the hearts of the "We The North" movement to see the beloved Johnson sign with another team in the Atlantic Division, although from a personnel standpoint, it makes total sense for the Celtics to make a push to acquire his services and toughen up the frontcourt.

Johnson has never been a numbers guy, hovering around averages of 10 points and six rebounds for the past three seasons. His value comes in areas that don't necessarily show up on the stat sheet, like setting picture-perfect screens and hustling on both ends of the floor on a nightly basis.

He does carry some red flags, though, as his ankles seem like they'll be an issue for him for the remainder of his career. He knows how to play through pain, but his body is clearly showing signs of deteriorating.

Johnson averaged 9.3 points and 6.1 rebounds with a PER of 15.4 (his lowest numbers since the 2011-12 season) in 75 games for the Raptors last season.