The Toronto Raptors are in pursuit for veteran small-forward Joe Johnson, after he was waived by the Brooklyn Nets earlier today.
Joe Johnson and the Brooklyn Nets have opened buyout negotiations, ESPN has learned
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 25, 2016
Sources tell ESPN several playoff teams (Atlanta, Boston, Cleveland, Houston, Miami, OKC and Toronto) are already in pursuit of Joe Johnson
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 25, 2016
Johnson is averaging 11.8 points this season on 40.6 per cent shooting from the field, and 37.1 per cent shooting from 3-point distance. As a seven time All-Star, the 34-year-old can still serve as a valuable rotation player for any playoff team.
The Raptors, who have been without DeMarre Carroll for the past 21 games, could use an extra piece to strengthen their rotation up front. By adding Johnson, the Raptors would also be able to experiment more with Carroll at the power forward position when he returns.
At the moment, the Cleveland Cavaliers are the current frontrunners to acquire Johsnon after he clears waivers on Saturday, according to ESPN. With the Raptors only being three games behind the Cavs in the Eastern Conference, this is a move that will defiently help either team’s chances of an NBA Finals appearance.
All stats for this article are from NBA.com
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