Of the several teams around the NBA rumored to be hunting the trade market between now and February’s trade deadline, JJ Redick‘s Los Angeles Lakers are one of them. Even amid a 9-4 season, the Lakers need upgrades in at least two positions: center and point guard. But could there also be a power forward in the mix? Lakers insider Jovan Buha points out a possible trade candidate currently playing for the Brooklyn Nets.
Past Podcast Guest Potential Trade Option For JJ Redick’s Lakers
JJ Redick’s Lakers Rumoured to Have Interest in Cam Johnson
It’s no secret that the Lakers need to add to their roster. Generally speaking, they’re playing good basketball, as evidenced by their 9-4 record. At this point last season, 13 games in, the Lakers were 7-6 under Darvin Ham. While defensively, the Lakers are still finding their way; it is apparent that Redick has shifted this team in several ways, and the results are showing. However, the roster still has flaws, and GM Rob Pelinka is under pressure to fix them.
While upgrading the center piston to help out Anthony Davis is the team’s largest need, one player that the Lakers have been linked to going back to last season is Cam Johnson in Brooklyn. With the Nets sitting at 5-9 on the season, the franchise is expected to be sellers rather than buyers this year. Johnson is expected to be made available for a trade, as is Dennis Schröder. According to Buha on his Buha’s Block podcast, Johnson could be an option for LA. [7:30 mark]
“Could he be at a similar level to Rui [Hachimura]? I think so. They’re different physically, Rui is a better post defender, a bit stronger, and better suited to defend bigs. Cam Johnson is a little quicker on the perimeter but I think Cam has played better than Rui this season overall…Cam would be a great fit with the Lakers. If there’s a way to keep Rui in a Cam Johnson deal, I’d be really interested.”
What Johnson offers offensively could be the real upside here if a deal involving him and Rui Hachimura plays out. Johnson is a solid wing scorer who can stretch the floor at a high level. While Rui also poses a threat as a wing, Johnson adds more versatility and quickness at the position.
Familiarity and Fondness of Cam’s Game
There is another element here that holds some intrigue. It’s noteworthy that Redick is a big fan of Johnson and has often spoken highly of his game in recent years. Before Redick found his window into NBA coaching, he hosted Johnson on his Old Man and the Three podcast in 2023, where Johnson and Redick had a deep-level discussion about shooting. It’s clear from the conversation that both men share solid chemistry regarding the game of basketball.
Whether Johnson moves from a rumored possible option to a realistic option for the Lakers will flesh out as time moves closer to February. However, offensively speaking, a player of Johnson’s skill and caliber would be a welcome addition. As Buha mentioned, he’s having a better season than Hachimura. While Rui is also putting up a solid season for the Lakers, Johnson’s speed and versatility on the perimeter are attractive in this scenario. Additionally, he’s the more consistent shooter between the two. Consistent shooting is a necessity for JJ Redick’s Lakers. Cam Johnson is nothing but a rumor or a nice thought at present. Although, if Los Angeles could make it happen, it would be a major thumbs up for Rob Pelinka.
