Why this Works for Both Teams

This deal isn’t a super exciting one based on the names involved, but it helps both teams. In this swap, both teams trade away a position they have a surplus in and fill a need.

For the Pelicans, Alvarado has taken over the role that Graham was signed to fill. It’s not viable to play them together, unfortunately, since they’re so small.

The Pelicans do meanwhile have a need for floor spacing wings. Particularly once Zion Williamson comes back, players who can guard wings and space the floor will be key for New Orleans.

For Cleveland, Osman and Windler do fill a roll, but are extremely replaceable. The Cavs have six forwards they like to play: Kevin Love, Lauri Markkanen, Dean Wade, Lamar Stevens, Evan Mobley, and Isaac Okoro.

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Osman is good, and Windler has shown promise, but they don’t fill a need for the Cavs. Meanwhile, adding Graham would give the Cavs another option at guard, and another player who can space the floor around their three-big lineups.

This move alone won’t get these teams to contender status, but it’s a smart step in the right direction. Filling needs while sending out an unnecessary player is always smart, and both teams could do it in this one move.