The Brooklyn Nets have waived forward James Johnson ahead of the start of the 2022 NBA Playoffs. It is expected that they will convert Kessler Edwards’ two-way contract into a standard NBA contract so he will be eligible for the 2022 NBA Playoffs. The Brooklyn Nets decided to waive Johnson instead of Blake Griffin or LaMarcus Aldridge. Edwards has been impressive to close the season for the Nets and could be an asset. The Brooklyn Nets will play in at least one and potentially two play-in games.
This waiver clears the way for the Nets to convert forward Kessler Edwards to a standard NBA contract for the playoffs, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/AfSJf6ytdm
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 7, 2022
This year with the Brooklyn Nets, James Johnson played in 62 games and averaged 5.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. He paired those numbers with a field goal percentage of 46.9 percent and a three-point percentage of 27.1 percent. Kessler Edwards has played 46 games this season and is averaging 5.8 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. He paired his numbers with a field goal percentage of 41.2 percent and a three-point percentage of 35.9 percent. Edwards has played well to close the season and earned the roster spot.
Steve Nash hinted that the foreseeable move of converting Kessler Edwards to a standard contract would become a reality.
I am surprised to an extent it was James Johnson. Thought Blake Griffin would get the short end of the stick here. Instead, he’s staying — which is great.
— Chris Milholen (@CMilholenSB) April 7, 2022
The Brooklyn Nets are currently the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference, but are within one game of the 7th seed and even with the Atlanta Hawks at the 9th seed. They will be playing a play-in game, but their matchup is not yet set for that game.
