Report: Nets, Hornets resume trade talks; discussing Johnson-Stephenson swap

The Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets have reopened trade discussions involving shooting guards Lance Stephenson and Joe Johnson, reports Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports.

Wojnarowski notes that the framework of the deal would likely involve Stephenson, Gerald Henderson and Marvin Williams going to Brooklyn for Johnson.

The Hornets have been anxious to part with Stephenson for some time. Signing Stephenson was supposed to help Charlotte build a big three along with Al Jefferson and Kemba Walker, but Stephenson has failed to replicate his past successes. Stephenson is averaging just 9.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.8 assists while shooting an unthinkable 15.3 percent from deep.

For the Nets, ditching Johnson's cumbersome contract could hint at the start of a much-needed rebuild. Johnson remains a creative scorer, but he is owed nearly $25 million next season.

Walker's injury status likely plays a big part in the Hornets' motivations. Walker has come on strong of late, but he could potentially miss months if surgery is needed to correct a knee issue.

The auxiliary pieces moving Brooklyn's way in Williams and Henderson will provide value in the short-term. Williams is a passable stretch-four who could potentially step into Mirza Teletovic's role (Teletovic is out for the season with blood clots in his lungs) and Henderson is a gritty two-guard that can defend and spot up.

Moreover, the move could free up money off the Nets' overstuffed cap sheet. All three of Henderson, Williams and Stephenson's contracts extend into 2016, but moving a large sum in pieces is easier than shifting around a huge salary like Johnson's.