NBA Trade Rumors: Cleveland Cavaliers Interested in Trading for Joe Johnson

The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly interested in trading for Brooklyn Nets Joe Johnson, according to league sources.

Johnson would be a key addition to the Cavaliers, who are looking for some perimeter help. If the Nets move Johnson, they would be able to lighten their tax burden for this upcoming season.

ESPN.com's Marc Stein reported that the Nets have had talks with other teams, such as the Memphis Grizzlies, in regards to Johnson.

Johnson is currently the second-highest-paid player in the league. He is due to make $24.5 million next season. If the Nets trade Johnson for Brendan Haywood, who has a $10.5 million nonguaranteed contract that they can waive before Aug. 1 with no penalties, they can save a lot of money.

The Nets, however, would ideally want more than Haywood if they are going to be trading away one of their best players. The Cavaliers could then offer their big man, Anderson Varejao, who is due $9.6 million nest year. Varejao missed the majority of last season due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. Varejao, who started his professional career with the Cavaliers in 2004 after getting drafted by the Orlando Magic, averaged 7.9 points and 7.8 rebounds throughout his career.

The New York Post reported that if the Nets trade Johnson for Haywood and Varajao, they could end up saving $15 million in payroll. The Nets could then save an overall total of about $50 to $60 million in luxury taxes.

Johnson averaged 14.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists this season.