In an interview with Zach Lowe of Sports Illustrated, Joe Johnson talks about his --and the team's-- excitement about moving to Brooklyn and how it's inspired him to work harder and smarter this off-season.

"I think everyone is inspired right now by this Brooklyn thing," said Johnson. "I know I’m excited. I’m doing things I’ve never done before as far as working out and preparing myself."

He also noted how wowed he was by his first visit to Brooklyn. "I’ll tell you what: I’ve been to New York, but I’ve never really been out in New York like that ... It was unbelievable — all the fans coming out to welcome us. It was something I’ve never been a part of. I had a great time."

JJ also agreed with Brook Lopez that the ring is the thing. "That’s what we are shooting for — the ring. There’s no need to sell ourselves short. You talk about gelling and figuring it out, and I think we have the perfect pieces: a great point guard, a great center. I don’t think any of our positions are the same or overlap at all."

• Q&A with Nets guard Joe Johnson - Zach Lowe - Sports Illustrated
• Lopez, Johnson think the Nets can win a ring. This year. - Kurt Helin - NBC Sports
• Joe Johnson and Brook Lopez: Brooklyn Nets aiming for 2013 NBA title - Ben Golliver - CBS Sports
  
• Brooklyn Nets' Johnson, Lopez have title aspirations - Sporting News
• Joe Johnson: Nets Shooting for a Title - HoopsWorld
• Lopez: Title Realistic Goal for the Nets - HoopsWorld