While unloading the Joe Johnson contract seemed like a good move for the Hawks and a questionable one for the Nets, Brooklyn has been rewarded two-fold, as Deron Williams said the trade was the push that kept him with Brooklyn.
Deron Williams says he was close to choosing Mavs but acquisition of Joe Johnson pushed him to Nets.
— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) July 6, 2012
The Mavs had put a lot of eggs in the Williams basket, hoping to get the hometown guy. The Nets were criticized for the trade when it happened, but Brooklyn's faith has brought positive results, as they're considered one of the teams to beat in the East with the retention of Williams.
Johnson averaged 18.8 points, 3.9 assists and 3.7 rebounds for Atlanta last season. He was traded to Brooklyn earlier in the week for a handful of players with expiring contracts and a first-round pick.
For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.