The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled to make notable roster improvements this summer, leaving them with limited impactful free agency options. However, the trade market still offers potential, and one standout target is Brooklyn Nets’ Cameron Johnson.
Johnson is a top-tier 3-and-D wing, known for his exceptional shooting and solid defense. With the Nets potentially entering a rebuild after trading Mikal Bridges, Johnson might be available.
Brian Lewis of the New York Post reports that the Lakers are among the teams interested in Johnson, alongside the Kings and Magic. Other potential contenders include the Spurs, Raptors, and Warriors.
Johnson would complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis well, providing floor spacing and defensive capabilities. The challenge for the Lakers is assembling a competitive trade package. Johnson, in the second year of a four-year, $94.5 million contract, earns $23.6 million this season. A deal involving D’Angelo Russell or Rui Hachimura, plus Jalen Hood-Schifino and draft picks, might be necessary, but it’s unclear if it would suffice.
Acquiring Johnson would be a significant move for the Lakers, who have been mostly inactive this offseason. Last season, Johnson averaged 13.4 points and 4.3 rebounds, shooting 39.1% from three-point range.
Additionally, the Lakers had shown interest in big man Jonas Valanciunas during free agency, but he signed with the Washington Wizards. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst suggests that Valanciunas joining the Lakers via trade is still a possibility, although he can’t be traded until December 15 due to his new contract.
