http://www.sportingnews.com/nba-news/4690475-knicks-carmelo-anthony-new-york-phil-jackson-wins-kristaps-porzingi
• GM Billy King is conceding privately what we all know: The Nets aren’t making the playoffs. So it’s time to start breaking up the team. So far, Charlotte has called to try to deal for Bojan Bogdanovic, the team’s top 3-point marksman, Sporting News has learned. If Joe Johnson doesn’t get moved at the deadline, he’s seen as a prime candidate for a buyout.
But why buy out Johnson? Is he getting in the way of better up and coming talent? With RHJ out for a while, I don't see any reason for them not to try and field a somewhat talented team...unless they planning on tearing the entire team down and getting as many 'assets' as possible.
Some more context on this, which seems likely to me:
1. Billy King's contract is up at the end of this year, and Prokhorov seemingly wants to replace him.
http://www.eurohoops.net/featured/164476/prokhorov-wants-vatutin-as-gm.
2. The Nets stand to have a lot of cap room this summer.
It seems plausible to me that the plan is to dump players for picks this year, avoiding taking on long-term salary. (Lopez is probably exempt from that fire sale and perhaps Young).
Then, head into the summer with a few picks, tons of cap room and a new GM who can try to improve the team.
Given the box the Nets have put themselves in, this might be their best option.
I think you're probably right that Johnson wouldn't move the needle too much since they can't trade him for anything of value. Maybe they just want to be nice and give him a chance to play for a contender.
Topic: Official 2015-16 Brooklyn Nets Season Watch Thread (21-59, 3rd slot as of 4/12) (Read 705137 times)