Suitor emerges ahead of free agency for Cam Johnson

The former Tar Heel is eyeing a payday when NBA free agency begins this summer.

Bill Streicher/USA Today Sports

Cam Johnson, a key piece in the Kevin Durant trade between the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets, has already made the transition from the Western Conference to the East this season.

Now, as he faces free agency, the former North Carolina standout could be heading back to the Western Conference, this time to the Southwest Division with the Houston Rockets, according to HoopHype's Michael Scotto.

Houston currently has $47 million in cap room and is expecting to see that number grow to between $62-$64 million, according to Spotrac.

With that, comes both an interest and ability to pursue Johnson, the No. 11 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Johnson appeared in 42 between Phoenix and Brooklyn this past season, recording a career-high in points with 15.5 per game. The Moon Township, Pennsylvania native started all 25 games after being shipped to the Nets, averaging 16.6 points and a career-best 4.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists.

Alongside Mikal Bridges and Spencer Dinwiddie, Johnson helped lead Brooklyn to the sixth seed and a spot in the NBA Playoffs.

In four games against Philadelphia, the 6-foot-8 wing made his presence known ahead of what should be a massive payday.

Johnson tallied 18.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, while shooting 50 percent from the floor and 43 percent from three-point range.

After being swept by the 76ers, he will now turn his focus to impending free agency.

Johnson is a restricted free agent, meaning Brooklyn can ultimately match any offer that he should agree to with any team.

As the fourth year forward eyes free agency, will he exit Brooklyn or become a key piece to the Nets' future?