Inside The Nets

Coach Kevin Ollie gives update on Cam Johnson's injury status

Cam Johnson has missed the past three games for the Nets.
Peter Sunjic|
© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

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Brooklyn Nets

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. 

Hornets coach Steve Clifford gives his take on Ben Simmons

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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