The 25-14 Memphis Grizzlies are having a solid season with a return to the playoffs on their minds. With the team expected to upgrade their roster in the coming weeks, the Grizzlies have their eyes set on a Cam Johnson trade with the Brooklyn Nets. The Nets have emerged as continuing trade partners the Grizzlies want to deal with. However, it appears as if trade talks between the two franchises have slowed. This would not be the first time in recent weeks that the Grizzlies have failed to capitalize on a trade with the Nets.
Grizzlies Second Trade Attempt with Nets In Danger
Grizzlies Interest in Cam Johnson Trade Reportedly Unmoving
It was reported that when the Nets decided to take up the Los Angeles Lakers package for Dorian Finney-Smith instead of the package Memphis offered, the Grizzlies were none too pleased. It was a matter of draft picks. Memphis had a first-round pick on the table, but Brooklyn chose LA’s second-round picks, along with D’Angelo Russell.
Despite feeling brushed off, Memphis hasn’t stopped trying to go after another highly sought-after Nets player, Johnson. Both he and Finney-Smith have been high-value trade targets since Brooklyn announced they were making their entire team available earlier in the season. With Finney-Smith gone to LA, Johnson remains, but likely not for long.
Unfortunately, with current talks surrounding Johnson stalling, the Grizzlies might face another failed trade attempt with the same team. Several other NBA teams recognize Johnson’s value, including the Lakers. However, considering their trade for Finney-Smith, the Lakers are more than likely off the table. Brooklyn could also retain Johnson past the trade deadline. That being said, it would only push back his departure a few months, as the summer would surely see Johnson exit Brooklyn for good.
Cam Has What Memphis Wanted in Dorian
Johnson is presently on ice due to a sprained ankle—he’s missed Brooklyn’s last five matchups. Aside from that, as for the type of season Johnson is building, it’s been a career year for the seven-year Phoenix Suns draft pick. He has career highs in points (19.5), assists (3.0), field goal percentage (49.6%), and minutes per game (32).
Johnson’s specialty is his size and length as a solid 3-and-D wing, much like his former teammate Finney-Smith, who is also a strong 3-and-D wing. It was DFS’s perimeter presence, shooting, and defense that drew Memphis to him to help the Grizzlies’ own perimeter presence. So, it’s only fitting that the Grizzlies would also set their eyes on Johnson. His 6-foot-8 wing is key to his strong defense, not to mention his ability to go after rebounds.
Another Failed Deal with Brooklyn Would Be Disappointing
Already losing out on Finney-Smith—and to a Western Conference rival, no doubt—losing out on Johnson too would add to the Grizzlies’ heavy disappointment as a missed opportunity. Would they be counted out of a deep playoff run? Likely not. Still, finding a path for a Johnson trade should be a priority as the deadline looms ahead. It would be a significant addition that would leave other suitors disappointed instead.
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