Marc Stein has updated his story on ESPN.com regarding the Brooklyn Nets chasing Atlanta Hawks point guard Joe Johnson, citing sources saying the Nets feel they’re limiting their financial flexibility too much in their most recent trade proposals; presumably, all of them, since acquiring Joe Johnson limits financial flexibility by design. Stein adds that MarShon Brooks is a sticking point for both teams, as the Hawks want to include him in the deal and the Nets refuse. The Nets also presumably will only do the deal if it ensures a verbal commitment from Deron Williams, as that they’re not sure they’ll retain him currently.
As mentioned, the current deal proposed by the Nets is Jordan Farmar, Johan Petro, Anthony Morrow, Jordan Williams, a signed-and-traded DeShawn Stevenson, and a future first-rounder for Joe Johnson outright. The first three players are on expiring contracts worth $11.75 million, Jordan Williams is on a rookie contract worth under $1 million, and DeShawn Stevenson has yet to sign a contract.
Joe Johnson makes $19.8 million in 2012-13, $21.5 million in 2013-14, $23.2 million in 2014-15, and $24.9 million in 2015-16.
