Joe Johnson face uncertain future

[HMFFL]

When the heralded 2010 free-agent market opens this summer, most of the public’s attention will be devoted to figuring out where LeBron James(notes), Dwyane Wade(notes) and Chris Bosh(notes) are going. But there’s another prominent All-Star who figures to attract a lot of interest from NBA suitors, and he just might be among the most likely players to change teams.

Joe Johnson(notes) has the Atlanta Hawks contending now in the Eastern Conference, but several league sources say they wouldn’t be surprised if the All-Star guard leaves this summer, specifically to sign with the Chicago Bulls. The Hawks’ perch near the top of the East would likely keep them from moving Johnson – or any of their other core players – before next month’s trade deadline, but rival team executives wonder if they’d at least be willing to listen to offers if they aren’t certain Johnson will return.

“At this point in my career, not too much is going to surprise me,” Johnson said. “Who knows what’s going to happen?

“I’m one of those guys that always prepares for the worst, but always hope for the best.” Click to Read More

[evildallas]

Couple of comments:

First article I am aware of that has said that Woodson signing has a direct impact of Joe's decision. I always assumed this, but this was the first one I can recall going on record with the connection.

Talent-wise it is a no brainer to keep Joe, but whether a max contract is wise given the potential changes with the CBA is a harder call. Not to mention his personality and marketability affects the return on that investment as well. To merit max dollars you have to be an excellent player and fill the seats. I'm not sure Joe can ever do that. Ownership has a tough decision in the summer.

I think Chicago signing Joe would be a bad move for them. While it is true they could use an upgrade at the 2 guard spot, the bigger need and harder to fill need is a scorer on the block at PF to compliment Noah. Joe would improve their team, but wouldn't get them over the hump to be a legitimate title contender in my opinion. Their offense would still be too perimeter-oriented although the penetrating PG gives them an advantage over the current us, but not enough to beat the Cavs (assuming they still have Lebron) or Lakers or whatever new power arises from free agency.

[azuresou1]

What would Chicago be sending back in exchange for Joe Johnson? They have no assets we'd want, other than Derrick Rose who they're obviously not shipping.

[raleigh]

Absolutely nothing, azuresou1. They have the cap space to sign him outright.

First thing I'd do if JJ signs elsewhere is to package Bibby with either Marvin or Zaza for a wing.

[MaceCase]

What would Chicago be sending back in exchange for Joe Johnson? They have no assets we'd want, other than Derrick Rose who they're obviously not shipping.

I don't think the article is saying Chicago would make a move for Joe before the trade deadline but whether or not the Hawks' organization, fearing Joe would leave in the summer, would consider making a move to any team considering we are currently competing for a 2 seed.

[evildallas]

I took the article as talking about who could pay him more in the off-season than he already turned down from the Hawks. It briefly touched the subject of a deal now, but everyone knows that is a remote possibility.

[HMFFL]

Joe Johnson, who will likely become a free agent this summer, said on Friday that he would "love to" re-sign with the Hawks, before adding, "But who knows what happens, man." Link

[parson]

First thing I'd do if JJ signs elsewhere is to package Bibby with either Marvin or Zaza for a wing.

Considering how well Marvelous plays whenever Joe is out, are you sure about that?

If you're determined to trade MW, at least sit Joe for a couple of games to let Marvelous pad his stats. Otherwise, what can you expect to get for him?

[donemilio21]

Obviously he can get more money playing for the Hawks (that is if Hawks offer him a max 6 year deal).
I'm not sure if he would leave Atlanta for Chicago or Clippers, although that'd be real nice , if New York can't land on Lebron or Wade, JJ will be headed to NY.

[evildallas]

The title of the article has always struck me as funny. Am I supposed to feel bad for Joe Johnson facing an uncertain future? He turned down a 60M/4 yr extension in hopes of getting more. If the uncertain future was that big of a concern he could have opted for security last summer. Ultimately I think he'll exceed the 60M payday, but he'll have to live with uncertainty until then.