LeBron James: 8 offseason moves Cavs must consider if LeBron leaves

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NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 09: Larry Nance Jr. #22 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during warm ups before the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 9, 2018 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images) /

4. Extend Nance

Larry Nance Jr. can play, and he’d be an important piece of the future, especially if the Cavs are able to get something for Tristan Thompson on the trade market.

Nance is entering the final year of his rookie contract, so the Cavs can begin negotiations on an extension beginning July 1.

According to Cleveland.com’s Joe Vardon, there is mutual interest in keeping Nance in Cleveland.

"“The Cavs have expressed to Nance that they view him as a foundational piece, sources said,” Vardon wrote."

Nance has improved every year since being drafted out of Wyoming. He’s averaged 8.9 points and 7.0 rebounds per contest last season.

Nance, 25, is a physical player capable of handling the dirty work.

It’s still a little surprising the Lakers parted with him. Magic Johnson went on record before last season talking up Nance’s name, and it’s not like he disappointed.

But when dealing with Cleveland before the trade deadline, LA needed to clear cap space, and they did by ridding themselves of Jordan Clarkson. It cost them Nance, though, too.

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