Summary
Cameron Johnson was the last active player from the Kevin Durant trade return — the emotional anchor of the post-KD rebuild. On July 8, 2025, the Nets traded him to the Denver Nuggets for Michael Porter Jr. and a 2032 first-round pick, closing the chapter on the "keep or trade?" debate that defined his time in Brooklyn. He was a legitimate starter — 19.4 PPG on 41.5% from three — but at 29, his timeline didn't align with the rebuild.
Key Insights
- Acquired from Phoenix in the KD trade (February 2023) along with Mikal Bridges and four first-round picks
- Signed a 4-year, $94M extension — showed mutual commitment at the time
- Averaged 19.4 PPG on 41.5% 3PT shooting in 2023-24 — elite spacing at the 4
- Traded to Denver (July 2025) for Michael Porter Jr. and a 2032 first-round pick
- The trade extended the Nets' pick haul to include a pick as far out as 2032
- His departure marks the complete dissolution of the KD-era roster
Details
The Keep vs. Trade Resolution
The 2024-25 season was dominated by the Cam Johnson question: keep him as the veteran foundation, or trade him for more assets? The front office chose assets — and got a good return. MPJ is a higher-ceiling scorer, and the 2032 first extends Brooklyn's pick timeline by a year.
His Legacy in Brooklyn
Cam Johnson represented the "bridge" era — too good to tank with, not good enough to contend. He was a consummate professional, a locker room leader for the young guys, and a legitimate NBA starter. Nets fans remember him fondly even though the trade was the right move.
Impact on the KD Trade Tree
With Cam Johnson gone, no players from the original KD return remain on the Nets roster. The entire trade tree has been converted to draft picks and further trades. The Kevin Durant Trade Tree now traces to: 8 first-round picks (Suns + Knicks), 2 pick swaps, Michael Porter Jr., and a 2032 Denver first.
Related
Open Questions
- How will Cam Johnson perform in Denver alongside Jokic?
- Was the MPJ return better than what other teams offered for Cam?