I have a question very much related to this...
So, I printed a paper wallet for ETH from MEW..
I remember my password very well.
Do I NEED the JSON file? It is my understanding that since the printed paper wallet has the private key, and I remember my password.. then I would not Need the JSON file.

Can someone here enlighten me?
Thank you guys!
Yes you are correct. JSON File is used if you dont want to type or copy paste your long private keys.
As long as you have your private key and its password its all the same.