Los Angeles Lakers Planning to Make Big Move for Nets Forward to Pair-up With LeBron James Amid Roster Shake-Up

LeBron James (Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images)

According to Matt Moore of Action Network, the Los Angeles Lakers want to take advantage of the Brooklyn Nets’ anticipated fire sale after this year’s NBA draft and deal with sharpshooting forward Cameron Johnson.

In a significant trade on Tuesday, Brooklyn sent standout center Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks, indicating a change in strategy toward a rebuild. A day later, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype revealed that the Nets might part with other critically experienced players.

Moore’s article from Thursday indicates that Johnson may have suitors in the Los Angeles Lakers. Moore wrote, “The Lakers are among the teams expected to be interested in Johnson from Brooklyn.”

Johnson, a 39.2% career 3-point shooter, has had trouble staying healthy; throughout five seasons, he has played 60 or fewer games. Still, given his outside shooting skills and 6-foot-8 frame, he should continue to be a sought-after commodity for competitors.

Meanwhile, Johnson signed a four-year, $94.5 million contract last offseason, and it is good until the conclusion of the 2026–2027 campaign. Therefore, he will be under contract with whatever team for at least three seasons if they want to sign him.

Despite Interest in Cameron Johnson, Los Angeles Lakers Are Unlikely to Sign a Third Star

In his article on the Los Angeles Lakers interest in Cameron Johnson, Matt Moore stated that the fifth-year forward is one of the team’s potential offseason targets. The Lakers have long been reported to want to acquire a third star. However, Moore believes that options are becoming increasingly remote.

Moore said, “That third star they talked about pursuing with the three first-round picks at their disposal no longer seems as likely with [Donovan] Mitchell back with the [Cleveland Cavaliers] and Jimmy Butler likely to remain in Miami. Then again, never say never when it comes to stars wanting to play for the Purple and Gold.”

As a result, it looks like Los Angeles Lakers fans should brace themselves for a tranquil summer, except perhaps signing high-profile role players. The organization has already made one attempt to solve the issue. They selected Tennessee marksman Dalton Knecht as the 17th choice in Wednesday’s draft.