Nuggets desperation gives Rockets an ideal trade target in Cam Johnson

The Rockets' roster gives them some unique advantages, but they could always use better conventional role players too. One of the best trade candidates who fits this mold is Cameron Johnson, who the Nuggets will be looking to trade in order to get out of the second apron. If Houston can help them in that goal, they could end up with a proven shooter and solid defender that would help out any lineup immediately.

Cam Johnson will be an ideal piece for the Rockets

Throughout his NBA career, Johnson has been known as a prototypical 3-and-D wing and proven that reputation on multiple teams. Last season, his first in Denver, Johnson struggled to adjust to a smaller role and dealt with injury problems. Still, he shot 43% from three-point range even in a down year and was one of Denver's stronger defenders.

Johnson's lethal shooting could unlock the full potential of Houston's slashers and give the Rockets more spacing without sacrificing their defensive identity. He's a 40% shooter from deep for his entire 7-year career and also has the ability to scale up or down into different roles. He showed that he can take on more scoring load in Brooklyn, when he averaged an efficient 19 points one season on a rebuilding team.

The Rockets won't need all that from Johnson; they can just ask him for the same efficient 12 points per game he gave Denver last season. But Johnson would give the Rockets another veteran with playoff experience and strong two-way play that can complement their stars. Any teammate would be happy to play alongside Johnson and likely see their numbers improve thanks to his selfless movement and mature attitude.

The Rockets have a workable trade package

Taking on Johnson's remaining contract is a big financial risk because he will be an unrestricted free agent next summer. The Rockets could work on signing him to a longer deal if they acquire him, but he remains a flight risk on paper. At the same time, maybe that means he won't cost as much to obtain.

The Nuggets are in a financial jam and over the second apron currently. Saving just a couple million dollar in team payroll can get them under that prohibitive threshold and provide more roster-building flexibility. The Rockets' best offer would have to involve Reed Sheppard, Clint Capela and a minimum contract, such as Jae'Sean Tate or Isaiah Crawford.

It would be a risky bet shipping out Sheppard so early in his young career, but perhaps worthwhile if Johnson can elevate the Rockets to true title contenders. Trading for Johnson won't be an easy task on Houston's end but one that remains possible if needed, especially given the Nuggets' cap crunch.

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