One NBA writer believes the Brooklyn Nets need to re-sign small forward Cameron Johnson this summer.
Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report thinks the Nets can’t afford to lose Johnson, who becomes a restricted free agent this offseason.
“Restricted free agency is a powerful tool that allows a team to match any outside offer,” Hughes wrote. “The Brooklyn Nets should be glad they have it at their disposal when it comes to Cameron Johnson, one of the most prized options on the market. Johnson doesn’t have the star wattage of James Harden, Kyrie Irving or even Khris Middleton, but his plug-and-play profile brings maximum portability. And it doesn’t hurt that his next deal will take the 27-year-old right through his peak seasons.”
The Nets acquired Johnson from the Phoenix Suns in the Kevin Durant trade. The UNC product averaged 16.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 25 games with Brooklyn while shooting 46.8% from the field, 37.2% from beyond the arc and 85.1% from the free-throw line.
As a restricted free agent, Johnson can either re-sign with the Nets or sign an offer sheet with a rival team. Brooklyn can match any offer sheet Johnson signs as long as it comes within 48 hours.
“Johnson is a career 39.3 percent sniper from deep,” Hughes wrote. “Prior to adding volume in a slightly larger role with the Nets this past season, he proved he could contribute to a winner in Phoenix, logging meaningful minutes during their 2021 Finals run and their 64-win season in 2021-22. In every season of Johnson’s career, his teams have posted positive point differentials with him on the floor.
“That’s all to say Johnson will be arguably the most highly sought-after player in the non-superstar category. He fits everywhere, contributes on both ends and makes sense among title-chasers and rebuilders alike. The Nets can’t let a robust market scare them. When free agency opens, Brooklyn must be prepared to make Johnson a $100-million man. That’s pricey, but the cost of letting such a talented piece get away would be far higher.”
The Nets got swept by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the 2023 playoffs. Johnson, 27, told reporters during his end-of-the-season press conference that he would like to re-sign with Brooklyn.
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