The Brooklyn Nets need help in the backcourt and they were able to address that by finally getting the same player they fell short of getting back in 2016. Tyler Johnson, waived by the Phoenix Suns in February, will be suiting up for the Nets next month when the NBA bubble games kick-off.
Brooklyn is among the top eight teams in the Eastern Conference but has the Orlando Magic breathing down their neck. They are just half a game ahead of the Magic with a 30-34 win-loss record. Johnson's addition should fortify the backcourt of Brooklyn which is likely to play on the season without star guard Kyrie Irving. Irving is one of the NBA players not too keen on playing with the COVID-19 pandemic stil in the air.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, Johnson agreed to a deal with the Nets but did not get into specifics. For now, it would be safe to say that he will play for the rest of the season. As to whether this would be extended may depend on how well he performs for the Nets.
Looking at his averages this NBA season, Johnson played in 31 games averaging 5.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists. These are a far cry from his career-highs of 10.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists. There is a chance he can recall his old form and reach his averages, perhaps do even better. With the Nets banking on only a handful of guards, the 28-year-old could use this chance to up his market value in the offseason - assuming the Nets have not locked him up yet for a longer lease.
Ironically, the Nets did try to lure Johnson back in 2016 by dangling a $50 million offer. Unfortunately, the Miami Heat matched that offer. Though numbers were not disclosed, it is likely Brooklyn got him now at a cheaper price. From there, it will be up to Johnson to prove he deserves bigger pay.
Critics are not giving the Nets much of a fighting chance this season with powerhouse teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics lording it over the Eastern Conference. He may be more of a replacement player for now but the reward for an outstanding performance looms.
But looking ahead, he may find himself playing behind Kyrie Irving by next season. Regardless, he could end up being a vital part of the Nets if he proves worthy. For now, the focus for Johnson is recalling the form that got Brooklyn deeply interested in him back in 2016.
