The Lakers are reportedly interested in Brooklyn’s Cameron Johnson. Here’s how they could make the trade happen in two different ways.
**Lakers Target Cameron Johnson**
The Lakers are considering Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson for their next major acquisition. Despite a quiet offseason with no major signings or trades, the Lakers are keen on adding the versatile, sharp-shooting 28-year-old to their roster. With the Nets in a rebuilding phase, this might be the perfect time for the Lakers to act.
**Trade Scenario 1: D’Angelo Russell Returns to Brooklyn**
**Trade Details:**
– **Lakers Receive:** Cameron Johnson
– **Nets Receive:** D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Jaxson Hayes
In this scenario, the Lakers would send D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Jaxson Hayes to the Nets in exchange for Cameron Johnson. This would reunite Russell with the Nets, offering Brooklyn a mix of veteran presence and young talent, while the Lakers gain a versatile forward.
Russell’s first stint with Brooklyn was pivotal, earning him an All-Star spot and leading the Nets to the playoffs in 2018-19. Since then, his career has seen several moves, including a return to the Lakers in 2023, where he averaged 18.0 points and 6.3 assists. Adding Johnson, who averaged 13.4 points and shot 39.1% from three-point range last season, would significantly boost the Lakers’ lineup.
**Trade Scenario 2: Keeping the Core Intact**
**Trade Details:**
In this scenario, the Lakers would trade Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Jaxson Hayes, and a 2030 first-round pick to the Nets, allowing them to add Johnson without disrupting their core players.
Johnson’s addition would allow the Lakers to field a strong starting lineup with D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Cameron Johnson, and Anthony Davis. This lineup would enhance spacing, versatility, and scoring. LeBron James would also take on a backup point guard role when Russell rests, and his son, Bronny James, would join the main squad rather than heading to the G-League.
Rui Hachimura would bring energy off the bench, and rookie Dalton Knecht would provide additional scoring. This trade enhances the Lakers’ depth and versatility, making them strong contenders in the West. For the Nets, acquiring Vincent, Hood-Schifino, Hayes, and a future first-round pick aligns with their rebuilding strategy, adding valuable assets for the future.
