One of the first things Nets GM Sean Marks did when he got to Brooklyn was buy out Joe Johnson’s contract. Could he be bringing back the big shot-making wing?
The 38-year-old Johnson will work out for Brooklyn next week at HSS Training Center, according to ESPN. The veteran played for the Nets from 2012-16, averaging 14.7 points in 288 games over three and a half seasons.
Johnson earned the nicknames Iso Joe and Joe Jesus for his clutch late-game shot-making ability. He was even named an All-Star in 2013-14, the last time a Net had played in the game until the just-departed D’Angelo Russell did so this past season.
But Johnson is obviously a very different player now. He didn’t play in the NBA last season, playing in the BIG3 League instead, though he was its MVP. He averaged 6.0 points in 23 games for the Rockets in 2017-18, shooting 38.1% and 27.9% from 3-point range in 23 games.
Still, Johnson’s return is far from certain for a couple of reasons.One, Brooklyn’s roster is full. Wilson Chandler was suspended for 25 games after testing positive for PEDs and the Nets, who haven’t commented on the suspension, can fill his spot after he’s missed five games.
Two, they might have competition for the small forward. He’ll also work out for the Pistons and Bucks, according to ESPN, which also reported he’s already worked out for the 76ers and is drawing interest from the Nuggets, Clippers and Pelicans.