Teams don't have to get to the minimum salary until the last day of the regular season, so keeping space for a deadline lopsided deal probably makes some sense.
It's not an albatross contract, IMO. Johnson is still a really good player. It's just that they've got $66M tied up in 3 players.
The reason I don't like this option is I don't think Lee can play very well. He's been hurt a lot and only played 18 MPG when he did play for GSW. The benefit of Johnson is that he can play and take some pressure off of Dame (make them pay for double/triple teaming him), and he's an ironman (35 MPG last season).
Joe Johnson would be an excellent mentor for CJ and Crabbe..I think this would be a good fit. He's also said to be a high character, locker room guy
What if we got Ronde Hollis-Jefferson back to absorb JJ's contract? He seems kind of redundant now, but we need more young talent.
The Cavs are considering trading for him. WOW. What a huge move that would be. 10.5M non-guaranteed contract of Bendan Haywood and Varajao. The deal would save the Nets tens of $millions in luxury tax. http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/13202763/cleveland-cavaliers-interested-joe-johnson-brooklyn-nets
If the Blazers can get a pick for it, it might be worth it, otherwise, what is the point? It just makes the Blazer's own pick next year less valuable and takes time from CJ and the band.