Cam Johnson Reportedly Viewed as Nets Trade Candidate amid 2025 NBA Draft Rumors

The Brooklyn Nets may leverage veteran forward Cam Johnson in a trade to get another lottery pick in the 2025 NBA draft, according to the New York Post's Brian Lewis.

The Nets have the No. 8, 19, 26 and 27 picks in the upcoming draft, and the 36th overall selection may have some value too. Lewis reported some within the league believe Brooklyn could use its draft capital this year plus Johnson to obtain a second crack at the lottery.

ESPN's Jonathan Givony offered similar intel in a May 19 mock draft.

"Brooklyn has veteran players, including Cameron Johnson, four first-round picks in this draft and future assets to dangle if it wants to move higher in the lottery," he reported. "Teams expect the Nets, who are also operating in the interest of present and future cap space, to consolidate some of what they have."

Johnson figures to be a regular source of speculation this summer and closer to the trade deadline if he's still on the Nets when they open the 2025-26 season.

The 29-year-old isn't on the same timeline as a franchise in a full rebuild, and he'll be an attractive addition for a team with playoff aspirations. He's a career 39.2 percent three-point shooter, and his $20.5 million salary next season is more than reasonable in the current market.

With Johnson, the big question probably isn't whether he gets traded but what Brooklyn prioritizes in the swap.

Because of his salary figure, he's an obvious piece to include in a blockbuster deal for a top star such as the Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo. A team that unexpectedly found itself in the lottery — the San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers and New Orleans Pelicans immediately jump out — could instead give the Nets assets to further their rebuild.

One way or another, it's tough to picture Johnson remaining a Net for the duration of his contract, which runs through 2027.