© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Coach Kevin Ollie gives update on Cam Johnson's injury status
Cameron Johnson exited the March 5th game against the Philadelphia 76ers after just eight minutes due to an ankle sprain. He suffered the injury after landing on Kyle Lowry’s foot, which is unfortunate given Cam’s standout performances in the previous games.
The former North Carolina Tar Heel did not join the Nets on the ongoing road trip, as he is back in Brooklyn nursing his injury. According to interim head coach Kevin Ollie, Johnson is recovering and is day-to-day now.
“Yeah, like I say it’s day-to-day with Cam, how’s he responding to treatment,” Ollie said before the Nets’ game against the Cavs. “It’s just day-to-day. I can’t speculate if he’s going to be ready to practice on Tuesday when we get back. That wouldn’t be right for me to speculate that. But like I say, I’m always gonna say, I’m gonna lean on the player and our medical staff to make the right judgment.”
Johnson will be helpful for the Nets when he returns
Johnson will likely slot in as one of Ollie’s best scorers, which he already displayed in the two games against Atlanta. The 28-year-old stepped up amidst Mikal Bridges’ slump and Cameron Thomas’ absence.
The former Tar Heel is a good fit in Coach Ollie’s system as he thrives on kick-out passes. Johnson has even made strides in creating scoring opportunities with a quick first step and sneaky athleticism.
Of course, he will likely start slow due to being rusty from the injury, but coming off the bench would be solid for CJ. He will still thrive while playing alongside Dennis Smith Jr., Lonnie Walker IV, and the rest of the bench unit.
Brooklyn must be healthy in the Play-In race
The Nets have a golden opportunity to catch up to the Hawks, who have two significant injuries on their roster. All-Star guard Trae Young is still out with a hand injury that will take him out until at least late March. The second injury is reliable wing player Saddiq Bey, who suffered a torn ACL.
While the Nets still have injuries, the team has gotten used to not having Ben Simmons. By getting Johnson, Brooklyn can reach the Play-In Tournament and earn a shot at getting a postseason appearance.
