Key Takeaways:
– Warriors’ Steve Kerr might not coach forward Cameron Johnson again unless there are injuries or other changes.
– Observers regard Johnson as a modern-day basketball player excelling in multiple positions.
– The possibilities of a trade of Johnson to the Warriors are being evaluated, despite his disappointing season in 2023-24.
– Potential trade scenarios for Johnson to the Warriors include a deal with Chris Paul or Moses Moody.
Are Warriors Making a Move for Johnson?
The Golden State Warriors could be eyeing a prospective roster upgrade this offseason with possible interest in forward Cameron Johnson. As per the recent buzz in NBA circles, Johnson had been previously coached by Warriors’ Steve Kerr during the 2023 World Cup. Despite little likely to reunite during the 2024 Paris Olympic games, Kerr has admired Johnson’s gameplay and maturity in the past. However, a possible trade to the Warriors remains open for discussion.
Reviewing Johnson’s Career Progress
With the Warriors anticipating a powerful team reshuffle, Johnson’s professional caliber makes him an attractive prospect. Cameron Johnson didn’t catch the brightest spotlight during the 2023-24 season; however, his career 3-point shooting rate of 39.2% suggests a promising talent. Indeed during his peak season with the Suns, Johnson hit an impressive 42.5% from the 3-point arc.
Post a successful season with the Suns; Johnson was handed a hefty four-year contract worth $94.5 million, indicating the organization’s confidence in his performance. Despite lacking significant offensive improvement, he manages an average of 11.7 career points, and a whopping 13.4 points per game last season.
However, his health poses a hurdle as he could only participate in 110 games over the last two seasons, leading to him warming the benches towards the close of the recent season.
Pricing the Player Right
The potential trade of Johnson from the Nets to the Warriors would largely hinge on the asking price. It’s suggested that the Warriors might show interest if a deserving salary match and a first-round pick are on offer. The question that prevails is how much the Nets would want to let go of Johnson?
One NBA executive quoted by Heavy Sports illustrated his views on Johnson’s projected trade value. He predicted it unlikely for the Nets to secure two first-rounders for Johnson despite him having the desired attributes of a modern stretch-4 basketball player.
Looking at Trade Options
Considering the trade dynamics, the Warriors could contemplate proposing Chris Paul or Moses Moody in an exchange. The trade involving Chris Paul, however, risks staining the Warriors’ reputation as they aim to secure Paul’s return or grant him free agency.
Substituting Moses Moody could also work in this scenario, with the Warriors also having to offload Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II for equivalent salaries. Although losing Moody can be tricky, it might be worth it if the Warriors can ensure the return of Klay Thompson.
The appreciation for Johnson’s game isn’t limited only to Kerr but reverberates across several coaches and GMs in the NBA. Hence, it remains quite plausible for the Warriors to prepare a trade pitch for Johnson. Only time will reveal whether the trade will materialize or not and how significantly it could influence the dynamics of the NBA.