Cam Johnson Trade Watch: Suns Forward Linked to Multiple NBA Teams in Salary Moves

By Edcel Panganiban June 07, 2025 10:30

As the 2025 NBA offseason heats up, forward Cam Johnson has emerged as a key figure in trade speculation, with multiple teams reportedly interested in acquiring the sharpshooting wing. Johnson, who was traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Brooklyn Nets in a blockbuster deal that brought Kevin Durant to Phoenix, now finds himself at the center of salary and draft maneuvering, as the Nets explore options to leverage his value for draft capital or roster flexibility.

Johnson’s Role and Performance

At 29 years old, Cam Johnson has developed a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable three-point shooters and a high-character teammate. Last season, Johnson posted career-best numbers, averaging 18.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game while shooting an efficient 39.0% from beyond the arc. His ability to space the floor and contribute on both ends has made him a valuable asset for any contender.

Despite his solid production, the Nets are reportedly open to moving Johnson to improve their draft positioning. Brooklyn currently holds multiple first-round picks 8th, 19th, 26th, and 27th overall—and is considering packaging Johnson with picks to move up in the 2025 draft lottery. This strategy suggests a preference for acquiring a potential star or accelerating the team’s timeline rather than relying on established role players.

Trade Interest and Potential Destinations

The Toronto Raptors and Houston Rockets have surfaced as logical suitors for Johnson’s services. The Raptors, fresh off acquiring Brandon Ingram and extending his contract, may view Johnson as a complementary piece to bolster their wing depth and shooting. Meanwhile, the Rockets, eager to add offensive firepower after a disappointing first-round playoff exit, see Johnson as a potential catalyst for their rebuild.

According to NetsDaily and other NBA insiders, Brooklyn is willing to include Johnson and the 19th pick in a trade to either Toronto or Houston in exchange for a higher draft pick around 9th or 10th overall. However, the Nets would also need to absorb a "bad contract" to make the salaries match, complicating negotiations.

Nets’ Perspective and Johnson’s Attitude

Nets general manager Sean Marks has praised Johnson’s professionalism and leadership, emphasizing his importance to the team’s culture. In a recent interview, Marks said, “We want high-character individuals, and Cam exemplifies that. He delivers consistent performance every day. The next step for Cam is to embrace a larger leadership role. He has a strong voice and is highly respected by his teammates.”

Despite this, the Nets appear ready to entertain offers, reflecting a strategic pivot toward maximizing draft capital. Johnson himself has acknowledged the challenges of trade rumors, describing the uncertainty as “a unique thing for professional sports” that “leaves your head spinning.” Yet, he remains focused on contributing wherever he plays.

Salary and Contract Considerations

Johnson’s contract, paying him $20.5 million in 2025-26 and $22.5 million in 2026-27, is viewed as reasonable in today’s market for a player of his caliber. This makes him an attractive piece for teams seeking a blend of shooting, defense, and veteran presence without overcommitting financially.

However, the Nets’ desire to move Johnson is less about his contract and more about their broader roster strategy. With ambitions to either draft a franchise cornerstone or clear cap space for a star acquisition, Johnson’s trade value as a reliable wing with a manageable salary is significant.

Cam Johnson’s trade buzz highlights the complex balancing act NBA teams face between maintaining competitive depth and maneuvering for future assets. With the Brooklyn Nets exploring deals involving the Toronto Raptors, Houston Rockets, and potentially other contenders, Johnson’s next destination could shape the landscape of the 2025 offseason. Whether he remains a steady contributor on the Nets or becomes a key piece in a salary and draft capital exchange, Johnson’s blend of shooting, leadership, and contract flexibility ensures he will be a coveted asset in the coming months.