10 Eastern Conference breakout candidates for 2023-24 NBA season

5. Cameron Johnson, G, Brooklyn Nets

After being dealt from Phoenix to Brooklyn, Mikal Bridges had a true breakout through the second half of the season last year that kept the Nets in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. In 2023-24, it might be Johnson’s turn to do the same. The 6-foot-8 forward was also part of the trade that ultimately sent Kevin Durant to the Suns, and like Bridges, Johnson thrived in his new home, posting averages of 16.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting nearly 47% from the field for the Nets. Johnson already looked capable of a breakout with the Suns, but the increased playing time the former North Carolina star will continue to receive in Brooklyn this year could lead him to become a 20-point-per-game scorer.