Even with a roster filled with talent, the Cleveland Cavaliers could still use some help when it comes to outside shooting. In this regard, an NBA analysis has suggested pursuing Brooklyn Nets’ Cameron Johnson in a trade.
The Cavaliers are gearing up for the 2024-25 NBA season with aspirations of becoming championship contenders. With Donovan Mitchell’s recent contract extension, the All-Star guard is secured for at least three more years, bringing stability to the team. New head coach Kenny Atkinson steps in with a talented roster that largely remains intact, featuring a formidable starting five of Mitchell, Darius Garland, Max Strus, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.
After a promising last season, the Cavaliers aim for a deeper playoff run, with high expectations from their dynamic backcourt duo of Mitchell and Garland. Both players can score effectively and create opportunities for their teammates, making them one of the league’s most potent pairings when healthy.
Cleveland’s frontcourt, anchored by Mobley and Allen, offers a robust defensive presence, especially in the paint, where they excel as shot-blockers. Mobley’s development into a star player will be crucial for the team’s success this season.
However, concerns about depth and three-point shooting persist. Despite offseason additions, Cleveland remains only average in three-point shooting, which could hinder their offensive efficiency. Roster moves might include cutting non-guaranteed contracts to manage the payroll effectively.
With a total payroll of approximately $183 million, the Cavaliers are navigating a delicate balance to avoid luxury tax implications. If the young bench players develop and Atkinson’s coaching strategies take hold, the Cavaliers could emerge as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference, aiming for a top-four finish and a strong playoff push.
NBA Analysis Projects Cleveland Cavaliers Making a Trade for Brooklyn Nets’ Cameron Johnson
In order to address their weakness at three-point shooting, the Cavs need to bring in someone who can excel in that part of the game. According to ESPN’s Chris Herring, that guy could be Nets forward Cameron Johnson.
Few scorers are better plug-and-play options than the 28-year-old combo forward. He has playoff experience, and is both a capable defender and excellent perimeter shooter who has converted 39.2% from 3 over his five-year NBA career.
Several teams probably would part ways with assets for a player with Johnson’s skill set — particularly now that Mikal Bridges is a Knick and as the Nets continue their rebuild. But it’s also feasible Brooklyn could simply opt to keep him for now. Until the right offer comes along, Johnson is a formidable player on a reasonable contract who has three seasons remaining at an average of $23 million per year.
The Cleveland Cavaliers just extended both Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley earlier this summer. But if the team struggles offensively to get up enough 3-point shooting in the first couple of months under new coach Kenny Atkinson, it’s possible Cleveland could look toward Johnson to help better space the court. After all, the Cavs played their best basketball last season when its star bigs were split up, and the team compensated by playing lineups that spaced the court and launched 3s.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly interested in acquiring Johnson if he becomes available. Johnson, known for his sharpshooting and versatility, could significantly enhance the Cavaliers’ offensive capabilities.
His ability to stretch the floor aligns well with Cleveland’s needs, particularly as they seek to bolster their depth and scoring options. If the Nets decide to part ways with him, Johnson could be a valuable asset for the Cavaliers, potentially elevating their chances in the competitive Eastern Conference. This move could reshape Cleveland’s playoff aspirations.
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