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The Sacramento Kings have become one of the best stories in the NBA over the past few weeks, as the team has come away the victor in nine of their last 11 contests to attain a 22-20 record after a horrid start to the season.
While riding the momentum of their recent stretch of success brought about by the introduction of new head coach Doug Christie, the Kings' front office is reportedly getting close to completing a deal to acquire the Brooklyn Nets' Cameron Johnson, though there are a few more details that need to be hashed out.
"The Kings and Nets are negotiating over first-round pick protections in a potential trade involving Cam Johnson, per James Ham," Forbes' Evan Sidery shared via Twitter/X on Wednesday morning.
"Brooklyn wants an unprotected future first for Johnson, but Sacramento currently is only willing to offer it protected."
Recent rumblings surrounding Johnson have concerned Brooklyn's perceived worth for what may be the most valuable trade chip on the market other that the Miami Heat's Jimmy Butler.
The Nets have been reported as demanding two first-rounds picks at minimum in return for the versatile combo-forward, but Sacramento may be able to land the 28-year-old for a single one. Despite this, The Kings have still been hesitant to remove protections from their first-round selections prior to moving them.
While Sacramento surely doesn't want to get swindled in a potential deal, they may just be forced to take the easy way out and relinquish an unprotected draft choice in a move that could exponentially boost the team's title odds.
Standing at 6-foot-8, Johnson has exploded in terms of his offensive production and efficiency as Brooklyn's No. 1 option this season, averaging 19.4 points and 4.1 rebounds paired with a remarkable 41.9% three-point percentage on 7.6 attempts.
As a former member of the Phoenix Suns during their run to the 2021 NBA Finals, Johnson provides a veteran presence with postseason, and specifically NBA Finals D.N.A. for Sacramento.
Aside from his elite three-point shooting and overall improved offensive skillset, Johnson is also a defensive force on the perimeter with the ability to stay connected to opposing players of all sizes in a one-on-one matchup.
A potential trade for Johnson may include players like Kevin Huerter and Trey Lyles for financial purposes, but Sacramento my also be forced to give up a young prospect like Keon Ellis or Devin Carter along with first-round draft capital.
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