4 Post NBA Trade Deadline Targets For The Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers could be buyers in the buyout market following the end of the NBA trade deadline. Here’s three potential names to watch for.
Deron Williams: The Cavs expressed trade interest in Deron Williams, but nothing came of their overtures, probably because the team didn’t have a way to fit Williams’ $9 million salary into a deal.
Good news, Cavs fans. Dallas is going to try to buy him Williams out, meaning the Cavs can sign him, and it won’t cost Dan Gilbert a thing, except money.
Vertical Sources: Deron Williams, Dallas have started discussions toward contract buyout. Cleveland, Utah, Atlanta expressed trade interest.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 23, 2017
Dallas is positioning itself to give the point guard job to former Indiana Hoosiers star Yogi Ferrell.
ESPN’s David Alridge reported the Mavs may just waive Williams, “all signs point to (Williams) quickly working out a teal with the Cavs…”
If Mavericks waive (not a buyout) Deron Williams, all signs point to DWill quickly working out a deal with the Cavs, per league sources.
— David Aldridge (@davidaldridgedc) February 23, 2017
Houston, a team that was thought to be interested in Williams, will not pursue him, according to Marc Stein of ESPN, and will instead pursue Andrew Bogut.
With Williams, the Cavs would be getting a player who can score (13.1 ppg) and dish (6.9 apg).
Andrew Bogut: There’s interest in Bogut as well, although the Cavs could face competition, according to ESPN’s Marc Stein.
Cleveland's Andrew Bogut interest is well-chronicled but sources say San Antonio /Houston will join the hunt if Bogut lands a Philly buyout.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 23, 2017
It will be interesting to see how Cleveland progresses with Bogut. The fact they are still interested in the former Golden State Warrior isn’t a good sign if you were rooting for the team to sign free agent Larry Sanders.
But, as Stein pointed out, the Cavs will have completion for Bogut, so if Cleveland decides it wants to add a rim protector, instead of a backup point guard, Sanders may still be an option.
Larry Sanders: He worked out for the Cavs and reports indicate the 6-foot-11 rim protector is in a great shape. The workout came and went though without Sanders getting a contract. The Cavs patience may be a hint that they’re waiting for other things to play out.
Related Story: Larry Sanders Was Arrested In June
Terrence Jones: The Pelicans were trying to trade the former 2012 first-round. It didn’t happen, and now the franchise is expected to waive the 6-foot-9 forward.
Jones would be an intriguing addition for the Cavs. The 25 year old can score (11.6 ppg), rebound a little (5.9 rpg) and give you a blocked shot every night. Does anyone remember when he dropped 36 on the Cavs on Jan. 23?
Next: Cavs Talking To Larry Sanders
He once looked like the future not to long ago for the Houston Rockets, but he was plagued by a car accident and injuries. With Boogie Cousins coming ton NOLA, he became expendable. Perhaps Cleveland will be the place for Jones to get on track.