Suns F Cameron Johnson (knee) expected to return vs. Nets

Phoenix Suns forward Cameron Johnson is slated to return from a knee injury to play in Thursday's home game against the Brooklyn Nets.

Johnson tore the meniscus in his right knee on Nov. 4 and underwent surgery four days later. He has missed the past 37 games.

Johnson, 26, was averaging 13 points and 3.4 rebounds in eight games prior to the injury, which came in his first season as a starter. The fourth-year pro has career averages of 10.5 points and 3.6 rebounds.

Johnson's return comes at a good time as the Suns remain without their star backcourt of Devin Booker and Chris Paul.

Booker (groin) will miss his 12th straight game on Thursday. The Suns are just 3-13 in games he has missed this season.

Paul (hip) is expected to miss his sixth consecutive game. Also, backup point guard Cameron Payne (foot) will miss his seventh consecutive contest.