The Brooklyn Nets have begun discussions with the Memphis Grizzlies of a possible trade involving shooting guard Joe Johnson. But the deal was put on hold as both teams could not find a “workable deal”, as reported by ESPN’s Marc Stein. Johnson, who is entering the final year of the six-year, $123.6 million deal he signed with the Atlanta Hawks in 2010 before being traded to Brooklyn in 2012, is set to earn a huge $24.9 million next season. The Nets are reportedly encouraged that finally a team is now interested in taking the 6-foot-7 All-Star and his massive contract. Even at 34 years old, the former Arkansas Razorback is still productive and healthy to play a full year. Last season, he averaged 14.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 80 regular season games for Brooklyn. The Grizzlies are said to be looking to improve their mid-range offense as …show more content…
He would also command double-teams every now and then which could open up space for Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph inside. Memphis also talked with the Denver Nuggets for a possible deal involving sweet-shooting forward Danilo Gallinari, but the negotiations were also postponed. Following the Nets’ elimination in the first round of the playoffs by the Eastern Conference-leading Hawks, owner Mikhail Prokhorov expressed his intention to once again revamp the roster. Their failed attempt on a super-team surely held them back more than they moved forward. Thus, they are desperately trying to unload Johnson and fellow highly-paid All-Star Deron Williams this offseason. Aside from the Grizzlies, the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets were also reportedly interested in acquiring the services of Johnson. According to Forbes, other trade options for Brooklyn would be with the Washington Wizards, Pistons, or any other large market team in need of a scorer such as the