NBA Trade Rumors: Nets name asking price for $20,500,000 forward targeted by Cavaliers & Grizzlies

Brooklyn Nets forward Cam Johnson is in the midst of a breakout season, but speculation is growing that the team may trade him as they rebuild. He is recording career highs in points, assists and field goal percentage, and there would be plenty of trade partners. However, Johnson won't come cheap.

With the Memphis Grizzlies and Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly keeping an eye on the situation, the Nets have named their asking price for Johnson. On Sunday, New York Post's NBA reporter Brian Lewis wrote:

"Sources have said the Nets would be loath to move him for less than two first-round picks or the equivalent thereof. He's been linked with a number of suitors, including Oklahoma City, Cleveland, Indiana and Sacramento."

One reason the Nets may be looking to offload the forward could be his salary. Brooklyn has been looking to lower their payroll for their rebuild strategy. In Jul. 2023, Johnson agreed to a four-year, $94,500,000 contract with the Nets. Per Spotrac, he is set to earn $20.5 million next season, and any interested team would have to pick up his hefty salary.

Last season, Cameron Johnson averaged 13.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 58 games. Over 33 games this season, he is averaging 19.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 3.0 apg.

The NBA trade deadline is set for Feb. 6, leaving just 18 days for teams to make their final moves.

Brooklyn Nets have been active in the NBA trade market over the last 35 days

Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson and former Brooklyn Nets guard Dennis Schroder against the Milwaukee Bucks at Barclays Center. Photo Credit: Imagn

The Brooklyn Nets have been active in the NBA trade market, with the organization offloading a few of their senior and higher-paid players over the last 35 days.

The decision to part ways with Dennis Schroder was arguably the biggest move of the season. The German guard was traded to the Golden State Warriors on Dec. 15 in exchange for De'Anthony Melton, Reece Beekman and three second-round draft picks (the Warriors also received a second-round pick).

At the time of the trade, Schroder was one of the team's top performers, averaging 18.4 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 6.6 apg and 1.1 spg over 23 starts.

On Dec. 28, they traded Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton to the Los Angeles Lakers for D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis and three future second-round picks.

The Nets have done a good job stockpiling picks, and obtaining a few first-rounders for Cam Johnson would put the organization in great shape as they prepare for the future.