Report: Rockets expected to pursue Brooklyn’s Cam Johnson in 2023 free agency

It appears 27-year-old forward Cam Johnson, the No. 11 overall draft pick of the 2019 first round, could be a target for the Rockets in 2023 free agency. Houston is expected to have approximately $60 million in salary cap space, like the most of any NBA team.

Known for his combination of perimeter defense and 3-point shooting, the versatile 6-foot-8 forward will be entering free agency for the first time. Thus, he will be a restricted free agent, and his current team — the Brooklyn Nets — will have the chance to match any offer Johnson receives on the market and retain his services.

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Then again, would Brooklyn be willing to match a lucrative offer that potentially could have serious financial consequences? It appears the Rockets might be willing to put that to the test.

Per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype:

Six NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype project Cam Johnson to earn a deal in the neighborhood of four years, $90 million in free agency this summer.

Several teams are expected to have interest in Johnson as a restricted free agent, including the Houston Rockets, league sources told HoopsHype.

Despite getting swept by Philadelphia, the consensus from NBA executives was Johnson helped his stock by averaging 18.5 points and 5.8 rebounds on an efficient 50.9% from the field and 42.9% on 3-pointers in the series.

Multiple NBA executives believe the Nets could be a trade suitor for Damian Lillard if he becomes available. Plus, Cam Johnson’s projected free agency value, trade intel on Dorian Finney-Smith and Royce O’Neale, and Mikal Bridges’ ceiling on @hoopshype. https://t.co/bQj9XlMetb

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) April 23, 2023

For the Rockets, who control Brooklyn’s first-round draft picks through 2027, it could be a uniquely valuable scenario in which they may benefit regardless of the final decision by the Nets.

If the Nets match a lucrative proposal, it could limit their flexibility for other opportunities to upgrade their roster — which would benefit Houston, as the owner of Brooklyn’s draft assets.

On the other hand, if the Nets don’t match out of a desire to maximize future flexibility, the Rockets would land Johnson, themselves.