I know training camp just started and we're all pumped about grabbing the title back from the Lakers, but indulge me for a moment and jump ahead to 2010. If the Celtics are unable to pull off a blockbuster move and get D-Wade (am I the only one who finds this realistic?), Joe Johnson will be available.
Via the Atlanta Journal Constitution:
Hawks captain and All-Star Joe Johnson said he will not sign a contract extension with the Hawks and will play out the final year of his contract this season.
Johnson will be an unrestricted free agent next summer.
The Hawks extended a four-year, $60-plus million contract offer to Johnson this summer. But Johnson said he decided not to sign the extension after mulling it over during the offseason.
Obviously, a lot will happen between now and then, but JJ is a name to consider. He'll be 29 next year and in the prime of his career. But I'm not sure I'd sign him to a deal worth more than what he's passing up now.
