The Brooklyn Nets are widely expected to be one of the biggest sellers at the NBA trade deadline, positioning themselves to stock up on draft capital amid a rebuild. One of the most prominent names in NBA rumors right now is forward Cam Johnson, who already seems to have a strong market of suitors.
Johnson, who turns 29 in March, is one of the best NBA trade candidates likeliest to be moved this season. The former first-round pick is enjoying a career-best season, averaging personal-highs in scouring and assists, while significantly improving his shooting percentages.
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- Cam Johnson stats (ESPN): 19.6 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.0 APG, 49.9% FG, 42.8% 3PT
Not only has Johnson been an excellent starter this season, but the 6-foot-8 forward is also under contract for multiple years. At a time when NBA salaries are skyrocketing, Johnson offers long-term control with an average annual value of $22.5 million. Brooklyn is already fielding trade inquiries from several contenders.
According to Jake Fischer, the Sacramento Kings and Indiana Pacers are reportedly two of the rumored suitors interested in Johnson. However, they are reportedly facing strong competition from one of the best NBA teams right now.
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Joe Vardon of The Athletic previously reported that the Cleveland Cavaliers have significant interest in Johnson. Furthermore, they have had internal conversations about swinging a trade with the Nets for their versatile forward.
- Cam Johnson stats (Spotrac): $22.5 million salary in 2025, $20.543 million salary in 2025-’26, $22.5 million salary in 2026-’27
However, there’s one factor complicating a potential deal for Johnson or another contributor who could help Cleveland compete for a championship. Fischer and Marc Stein also reported that while Cleveland is listening to trade ideas from teams, it is “reluctant” to do any significant tinkering with its roster because of how it could affect team chemistry.
Entering NBA games today, the Cavaliers are leading the Eastern Conference by over 5 games and have a double-digit lead in the Central Division over the Milwaukee Bucks. Meanwhile, the Pacers and Kings are more in a position of needing to make a significant addition to remain bonafide contenders moving forward.
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