The Cavs acquire Caris LeVert and kept most of their talent in place

The Cleveland Cavaliers have acquired Caris LeVert

Well, there was a reason why we rushed out those two earlier columns; as this trade was obviously in motion. The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a move that many will be happy with, acquiring Caris LeVert from the Indiana Pacers. The trade was finalized hours before the Pacers took on the Cavs on Sunday night.

The Cavs really didn’t give up much to get LeVert. They kept their trade exception for JaVale McGee, as well as Collin Sexton and Cedi Osman; the two other names often thrown around in conversation for trades.

While they retain both names, for now, the Cavs could still presumably make another move before the trade deadline, as they have about $20 million between Sexton and Osman’s contract and the $4.2 million trade exception that McGee created. So another move can still be done.

Caris LeVert could be a good fit for the Cleveland Cavaliers; maybe

LeVert and Jarrett Allen were supposed to be the focal point of the Brooklyn Nets’ revival, now they’re on one of the Nets’ biggest obstacles to get to the NBA Finals. Ironic. LeVert will add instant offense to the Cavs and is a total team player offensively. He’ll fit right in with the Cavaliers’ desire to pass the ball and work everyone into the game. He’s got a great skill set and a great attitude.

The issue that comes with LeVert is his three-point shooting isn’t something to rely on, and his defense has historically been rather bad at times. His three-point shooting isn’t going to improve much, he’ll be turning 28 in August and he is what he is offensive. Yet, defensively speaking, a player can be only as good as the system he plays in.

We’re watching Kevin Love turn into a defensive stopper at times thanks to JB Bickerstaff’s system. So why not LeVert?

Also, the trade rumors that surrounded LeVert seem to include Isaac Okoro, and the Cavs didn’t need to part ways with him, so there’s little reason to think the team can’t play the same type of defense.

LeVert’s arrival also all but guarantees that Brandon Goodwin will likely not see any more minutes either, and that’s a good thing.

I like the move to bring in LeVert more than I dislike it. It’s just not the perfect move it could’ve been is all.