No recent talks between Nets, Kings about Cameron Johnson

The Kings considered to be among the best suitors of Nets forward Cameron Johnsonbut the teams haven’t engaged in trade talks in weeks, Marc Stein reports in his latest Substack column (subscription required).

A source tells Stein that Sacramento officials currently do not see a way to complete a deal for Johnson before the Feb. 6 trade deadline. The Kings are pursuing deals with other teams instead of focusing on Johnson, Stein adds.

A weekend report from Jake Fischer at Stein Line confirmed that the Nets have not lowered their price for Johnson as they continue to ask for two first-round picks and a young player. Earlier this month, Stein stated that Sacramento was not willing to part with the rookie guard Devin Carterand it seems that attitude has not changed.

Fischer added that Cavalier have called about Johnson, but their interest appears to be exploratory only. He points out that Cleveland doesn’t have a first-round pick it can trade until 2031, so meeting Brooklyn’s demands is nearly impossible.

Stein brings up Pacers as another team to watch in the Johnson pursuit. However, Indiana has risen to fifth in the East after a recent hot streak, and Stein questions whether the front office wants to break up the current roster in light of its success.

It’s possible the Nets will hang on to Johnson after the trade deadline and see if better offers arise this summer. He is in the midst of a career-best season averaging 19.4 points per game. game while shooting 49.1% from the field and 41.9% from beyond the arc.