LeBron James on Joe Johnson: "He knows we want him"

The Cleveland Cavaliers are known to covet guard Joe Johnson, who recently was bought out of his contract by the Brooklyn Nets. Now, LeBron James has made it known that he'd like to bring Johnson into the fold.

"He knows that we want him," James said per cleveland.com ahead of the Cavs' game against the Raptors. "He knows that we want him and if he decides to come here, it'd be great. But if not, then we'll continue to move on with what we have."

Having LeBron recruit Johnson publically isn't the worst idea and it certainly doesn't hurt. James, for what it's worth, doesn't seem overly worried about Johnson signing in Cleveland.

"He's a great piece for any team and if we're lucky enough to get him, it would mean something to us. If not, we have enough here to compete," James said per cleveland.com

Johnson was bought out of his contract Thursday and the Cavs were considered one the favorites to sign him. ESPN's Zach Lowe, however, reports that the Miami Heat are expected to sign Johnson this weekend once he clears waivers.