
Cameron Johnson is off to a slow start in his first season with the Denver Nuggets. The 29-year-old forward arrived in the offseason via trade after spending three years with the Brooklyn Nets. Denver brought him in with the expectation that he could serve as a two-way scoring threat and a more cost-effective alternative to Michael Porter Jr., who was sent to Brooklyn in the deal.
So far, though, Johnson has struggled to find his groove, averaging just 8.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 0.7 assists while shooting 36.4% from the field on 7.3 attempts per game. Known for his excellent three-point shooting, Johnson has opened the season shooting just 25% from deep. He has only appeared in three games so far and will likely need more time to establish his fit in Denver’s offense.
However, his early-season struggles took another hit during Monday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Although Denver won the matchup 127–114, Johnson exited with 10:42 remaining in the fourth quarter and did not return after heading to the locker room with trainers.
On Tuesday, the Nuggets announced their official injury report and listed Johnson as questionable for Wednesday’s home game against the New Orleans Pelicans with right shoulder inflammation. If he is unable to go, Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown would likely see increased minutes in his absence.
The Nuggets reloaded in the offseason, and Johnson remains the move expected to be the most impactful. Porter had long been a defensive liability, and replacing him with Johnson allowed Denver to upgrade defensively without sacrificing offensively. Johnson also comes at a lower cap hit, playing on a four-year, $108 million contract. Fortunately, Denver has not ruled him out for Wednesday, and the questionable designation suggests he may have avoided a serious setback.
As the 2025–26 season progresses, Johnson will look to find his role with the Nuggets, who are expected to be a title contender in the Western Conference. Last year with the Nets, Johnson posted 18.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists and shot 47.5% overall and 39.0% from three-point range. He will look to bounce back the next time he plays. If he is not able to go against the Pelicans, his next chance to suit up for Denver would be on Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers.
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