While the NBA playoffs are underway, the Brooklyn Nets’ offseason has begun. The team is rebuilding and deciding its strategy for the upcoming draft and free agency this summer. Amid questions about Cam Johnson’s future with the Nets, Johnson addressed the uncertainty.
Cam Johnson Addresses His Future With The Nets
The Nets finished 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 26-56 record, missing the playoffs for a second consecutive year. They hope to have lottery luck on their side for the upcoming draft. Over seven seasons, the Nets hold 31 draft picks and have significant salary cap space. Trade rumors surround Johnson and center Nic Claxton, and the team has to decide whether they will re-sign guards D’Angelo Russell and Cam Thomas. Also, the Nets are reportedly interested in Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga, who is a restricted free agent.
Johnson, 29, averaged 18.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists during the regular season. He is on a four-year $94.5 million contract with two seasons remaining. Trade rumors have surrounded him since November, fueled by reports of interested teams.
Johnson Waits To Find Out His Future
Committed to the Nets’ rebuilding process, Johnson told Brian Lewis of the New York Post what he wants to find out from Nets GM Sean Marks about his future. Johnson said, “Definitely, definitely go to him and ask, because I have a very vested interest in what we’re doing here. I feel like I’ve put a lot of effort into trying to be a part of this program. And I take that very seriously. And I feel like I’ve also been given a responsibility to have that approach.”
Acknowledging his responsibility to improve while awaiting the outcome, Johnson continued. “I’d definitely like to know everything that’s going on. And I understand that I’m not going to be let in on every decision or have a say in every decision, but I would like to know going forward. But it is also my job to at this point work on myself, get better, and handle whatever comes along being a pro in the situation.”
Sean Marks Recognizes Johnson’s Value
Nets’ GM Sean Marks recognizes the value Johnson brings to the Nets and can offer to other teams. He told Brian Lewis, “There was no shortage of teams calling on [Johnson]. He’s a good player, and they value him, but so do we,” Marks continued, “I can’t think of a pathway or a team or an organization that Cam doesn’t fit in. There’s so many ways you can build this with Cam Johnson.”
Cam Johnson’s Future
Marks has not disclosed the Nets’ rebuilding decisions, Johnson’ future with the team, or ruled out pursuing a superstar this offseason. Instead, he has emphasized taking an opportunistic approach. He told Brian Lewis, “We need to be opportunistic. In this market we’re always going to have various different free agents and opportunities thrown at us, just simply being in a top five market in the league; that’s going to happen.” Marks continued, “We don’t want to get sped up. We’ve talked multiple times about being systematic and strategic in how we build here. We know we have 15 first-round picks in the next six, seven years.”
Johnson has demonstrated that he is a strong fit for the Nets. However, he can be a game-changer for any contending NBA team. His offensive and defensive talent helped the Suns reach the NBA Finals in 2021, their first since 1993.
For now, Johnson and the fans will watch closely as Marks navigates the off-season rebuilding process and waits to find out if Johnson remains with the Nets.
Photo credit: © Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
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