The league was rocked this month by dual MVP Bryce Cotton headlining a group of five big names who exercised their rights to exit their contracts.

Cotton's Perth Wildcats teammate Nick Kay, Brisbane's Mott Hodgson and Sydney duo Casper Ware and Xavier Cooks also opted out of their deals before Monday's deadline.

Their decisions came after the league announced drastic salary cuts as part of its cost-cutting measures during the coronavirus pandemic.

But five-time Adelaide MVP Johnson sees a bright future in the NBL and has inked a three-year deal to remain with the Sixers under new coach Conner Henry.

"I've really enjoyed my time at the club over my 10 seasons and Adelaide has become home," Johnson said.

"I look forward to coach Henry's arrival and working towards bringing a championship to the city of Adelaide."

Johnson, 32, led Adelaide in rebounding last year and has more than 300 NBL games worth of experience.

Henry, who replaces Joey Wright as coach, was thrilled to keep the dangerous scorer on his roster.

"Having DJ part of the next chapter for the club, embracing his teammates and the community will help us to build the roster and reach our goals for the future," Henry said.

Johnson's signing follows Adelaide's recruitment of young Australian point guard Josh Giddey under the NBL Next Stars program.

Australian Associated Press