Slumping Cam Johnson embraces the task of sudden bench role: "It's a work in progress"

From being demoted to coming off the bench, Cam strives to work his way back to consistency and a greater role.

© Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

It hasn't been an easy season for Cam Johnson. Fresh from signing a lucrative four-year, $94.5 million deal from last offseason and already eager to repay the Brooklyn Nets’ commitment, Cam entered the 2023-24 season bombarded by injuries and inconsistencies. As he is currently rusted by both his leg and hip issues, his overall play and offensive numbers have taken a nasty dip.

From starting in his first 40 games, CJ was moved off the bench in the past three games out of struggles. But this demotion of Cam in hopes for a performance sparker hasn't shown any significance yet for Kevin Ollie as the forward averaged a concerning 6.7 points in 18.3% rate (4-of-21 field goals) in all of those losses. His trademark three-point shooting isn't pleasing as well, as he went 3-of-16 from downtown.

Throughout the season, Cam is experiencing a downslide in points average (13.4) if compared to what he offered last season for Brooklyn (16.6).

Trust the process

Despite the individual skid he is enduring, Cam keeps his head high in hopes of eventually regaining his composure.

And while he couldn't be more bothered regarding his reduced role, he is buying in on the adjustments that Ollie has applied.

“Just trying to figure it out,” Johnson said before the Nets’ eventual Saturday loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves. “Trying to figure out what’s best for the team and help us win.”

“It's just about finding that rhythm, and we're all very routined. I think the routine is important in a long season like we have, so finding what works for you, finding how to manage your emotions, and your energies going into the game. It's a little different on both sides. So, like I said, work in progress," he added.

Welcome the change

For Ollie, Cam's sudden dropping to his rotational slate is a must-do approach in helping the 28-year-old reclaim his composure and rhythm.

For now, he has his fingers crossed that Johnson will ultimately thrive in his tough situation and climb his way back to his reliable and sweet-shooting form.

“I told CJ to have that power off the bench, coming off with his shooting prowess that he has,” Ollie said. “Understanding his role, embracing his role, and roles change. Definitely, as we go through thing, roles will change; nothing’s permanent.

“But I want him to embrace this team role that he has and come out there and play his best minutes.”

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