Cam Johnson isn't thinking about the future.
If the season goes as most experts believe, there's a good chance the Nets will demote him.
For now, he's focused on making the most of the situation.
“I felt comfortable no matter what happened,” said the agile 6-foot-8 wing. “And even though there's uncertainty, it's not the kind of uncertainty where I don't think the staff here, the front office here has a lack of confidence in me. So I I'm confident in this group. I'm going to continue to have confidence in myself. And I'm going to fight for this team. And the truth is, it's not even in my head. .
“So there’s a lot of basketball to be played here.”
Johnson ended the preseason in style with 32 points, five rebounds and four assists in a four-point loss to the Raptors on Friday.
He hit seven 3-pointers and looked ready for next season.
New manager Jordi Fernandes praised his professionalism and positive attitude, which he has shown to be one of the leaders of the rebuilding team.
“He was great,” Fernandez said. “I can't say enough great things about him.”
Johnson entered this year feeling ready for a big season.
It's a far cry from last year, when he was slow to start with a hamstring injury, didn't play in any preseason games, and was sidelined early in the season with a calf strain.
After a somewhat disappointing year in which he averaged just 13.4 points in 58 games, he's healthy and eager to prove himself.
“So much better, so much better,” Johnson said when asked how he feels at this point compared to last season. “Especially at this point in the season, what we're trying to do is build a base, build up our endurance and get more games.
“I felt like I had a few workouts last season before the Cleveland opener, but it's going to be a tough battle after that. So to go out there and get through this preseason. , obviously there are minutes of play and building that momentum is really important, especially shooting the ball. So I'm really happy to have played a lot this preseason.”
Killian Hayes did not join the Nets, but will remain with the Nets for the time being.
The 6-foot-5 French point guard and former lottery pick did not play in any preseason games due to a hip injury and was waived on Saturday.
However, he plans to rehabilitate his injury and play for the team's G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets, for the time being.
Hayes, drafted seventh overall by the Pistons in 2020, has not lived up to expectations.
He was waived by Detroit last February and signed with the Nets in September.
Hayes, a fifth-year player, was not eligible for a two-way contract.
Instead, the Nets handed the final two-way to former Union College star Tyrese Martin, who performed well during NBA Summer League and the preseason.
The 6-foot-6 Martin averaged 4.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.0 assists in four exhibition games.
The Nets also waived guard Amari Bailey.
He is also expected to join the Long Island Nets.
