Cameron Johnson was a controversial 2019 NBA Draft selection. At the time, many thought the Suns reached for him at pick No. 11. So far in his four-year career, the North Carolina forward has proved people wrong, as evidenced by his $108 million, four-year deal.
One concern regarding Johnson as a draft prospect was that he was a senior and the oldest player in the draft. He was viewed as an already-developed player with limited potential at the next level. Johnson’s another excellent example of someone undervalued by most teams because of his age entering the league.
Cameron Johnson Inks New Deal With the Brooklyn Nets
Johnson’s Skills and Roster Fit
Given his exceptional three-and-D skill set, Cameron Johnson seamlessly integrates into any NBA team’s system. The Brooklyn Nets are no exception. Acquiring Johnson is a great move that bolsters their core and enhances their identity with defense and shooting.
At 6-foot-8, Johnson improves Brooklyn’s roster as a two-way wing. He’s a versatile defender that has the ability to switch seamlessly and guard multiple positions. He’s a modern day-forward that can play either forward spot, giving them more roster flexibility.
Offensively, Johnson is one of the NBA’s premier floor spacers. He’s a career 39.3 percent three-point shooter. As a result, he’s an elite role player that gives his teammates room to operate.
Notably, Cameron Johnson contributes as an excellent complementary player, displaying a selfless approach on offense and making quick decisions. He won’t hurt your team and rarely tries to do too much. But Johnson also has shown consistent growth across all facets of his game, particularly in his ability to create his own shot. With the Nets, Johnson was relied on more as a go-to scorer and has shown potential in that area.
While it’s a high price tag, the fit makes a ton of sense with the type of roster and identity Brooklyn is trying to develop. The North Carolina forward is just starting to enter his prime at 27 and will be a great addition to their young core.
Cameron Johnson’s Recent Success
Cameron Johnson has continually progressed each year in his NBA career, having a career-best year last season. Johnson played 17 games with Phoenix and 25 with Brooklyn this past year. He averaged 13.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 0.9 blocks per game on efficient 47/46/82 shooting splits with the Suns.
Johnson had an increased role and opportunity on the Nets, with an increased number of minutes per game from 25.2 to 30.8. As a result of the increased opportunity and being more of a focal point of the offense, he raised his averages to 16.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.
Expect Cameron Johnson to continue his incremental improvements from season to season as someone only going into his fifth year in the league, justifying the high price tag.
