Despite having a roster brimming with talent, the Cleveland Cavaliers could still benefit from additional support in terms of perimeter shooting. In light of this, an NBA analysis has recommended that the team consider pursuing Brooklyn Nets’ Cameron Johnson through a trade.
As they prepare for the 2024-25 NBA season, the Cavaliers have their sights set on becoming legitimate championship contenders. With Donovan Mitchell’s recent contract extension, the All-Star guard is secured for at least the next three years, providing a sense of stability to the squad. New head coach Kenny Atkinson takes the helm with a solid lineup that remains largely unchanged, showcasing a powerful starting five composed of Mitchell, Darius Garland, Max Strus, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.
Following a strong showing last season, the Cavaliers are striving for a deeper playoff run, fueled by high expectations for their dynamic backcourt tandem of Mitchell and Garland. Both players excel in scoring and playmaking, making them one of the most formidable backcourt pairings in the league when in top form.
Cleveland’s frontcourt, anchored by Mobley and Allen, offers a significant defensive presence, especially in the paint where their shot-blocking abilities shine. The continued development of Mobley into a star-caliber player will be pivotal for the Cavaliers’ success in the upcoming season.
Nevertheless, concerns linger regarding the team’s depth and three-point shooting efficiency. Despite the offseason acquisitions, Cleveland’s proficiency from beyond the arc remains average, which could potentially limit their offensive effectiveness. The team may consider making roster adjustments, including releasing non-guaranteed contracts, to better manage their salary cap.
With a payroll hovering around $183 million, the Cavaliers are carefully balancing their financials to steer clear of luxury tax penalties. Should the younger bench players make significant progress and if Atkinson’s coaching philosophy takes root, the Cavaliers could solidify their position as strong contenders in the Eastern Conference, targeting a top-four finish and a deep playoff run.
NBA Analysis Suggests Cavaliers Pursue Cameron Johnson from the Brooklyn Nets
Addressing their need for improved three-point shooting, the Cavaliers might benefit from acquiring a specialist in this area. ESPN’s Chris Herring has identified Nets forward Cameron Johnson as a prime candidate for Cleveland.
Few players fit the mold of a plug-and-play scorer as well as the 28-year-old Johnson. His combination of playoff experience, defensive skills, and sharp shooting from beyond the arc—boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 39.2%—makes him a valuable asset.
While several teams might be willing to trade assets for a player with Johnson’s skill set, particularly with Mikal Bridges now with the Knicks and the Nets in a rebuilding phase, Brooklyn could opt to retain him for the time being. With three seasons left on a contract averaging $23 million per year, Johnson remains a valuable piece at a reasonable price.
Though the Cavaliers recently extended the contracts of both Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, their potential offensive struggles under new head coach Kenny Atkinson—particularly with three-point shooting—could prompt them to look toward Johnson to enhance their spacing. The Cavaliers were at their best last season when they deployed lineups that spread the floor and capitalized on perimeter shooting.
Reports indicate that the Cavaliers have a keen interest in pursuing Johnson should he become available. His proven ability to stretch the floor would significantly align with Cleveland’s needs as they work to deepen their scoring options and strengthen their roster. If the Nets decide to make Johnson available, his addition could prove to be a game-changer for the Cavaliers, enhancing their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference and potentially reshaping their postseason ambitions.
