The Brooklyn Nets and Memphis Grizzlies reportedly discussed a trade scenario that would send Joe Johnson to the Grizzlies, according to Marc Stein of ESPN:
Story going online now: ESPN sources say Nets and Grizzlies recently discussed a Joe Johnson-to-Memphis trade
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) June 29, 2015
Sources say teams could not find workable trade framework, but Nets came away encouraged they'll ultimately find trade taker for J-Johnson
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) June 29, 2015
Stein added on ESPN.com that the Hornets and Pistons did not appear to be in the mix. Both teams had reportedly discussed the framework of a Joe Johnson trade prior to the February 19th in-season trade deadline, but deals made since then changed their priorities.
Johnson has appeal on the open market as a giant expiring contract ($24.9 million) coming off the books in time for the new TV deal to kick in, as well as a talented isolation scorer and spot-up shooter. It’s also his 34th birthday today.
It’s not clear what the Nets would have received in any potential deal, and Stein added that a framework wasn’t reached. To make salaries work, a deal would have likely included Jeff Green (owed $9.5 million in 2015-16), Courtney Lee, and Vince Carter, the latter two being former New Jersey Nets. (Zach Randolph and Tony Allen also work salary-wise, but that’s a heftier price tag in talent.)
With the Nets looking forward, expect Johnson to be on the trade market throughout the summer — at least until he’s traded.
ESPN.com — Nets, Griz table Joe Johnson talks but Brooklyn hopeful it can deal guard
