The Cleveland Cavaliers are officially out of the NBA playoffs. This team certainly had higher aspirations. When they acquired Donovan Mitchell this summer, the Cavaliers intended to compete for an NBA title. Instead, they were eliminated by the Knicks in the first round.
The Cavaliers are loaded with talent. They also have problems. Evan Mobley’s potential remains immense, but his offensive game will need some development before Cleveland can take the next step.
With that said, his pairing with Jarrett Allen may be problematic as well. This summer, don’t be surprised if the Cavaliers move Allen for a quality wing player. Here are three we think they should target.
Cam Johnson
Meanwhile, the Cavaliers may not even have to trade for Cam Johnson. He’s set to hit Restricted Free Agency. Will the Nets let him walk? It’s hard to say. They certainly won’t want to. On the other hand, this team will be paying the luxury tax for a team that couldn’t pass the first round if they match the offer Johnson will receive in the open market.
With that said, the Cavs would have to make a trade to acquire Johnson. It could be an outright sign-and-trade situation. Alternatively, they could move Allen elsewhere to free up cap space for Johnson.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Cam Johnson, Brooklyn Nets & Cleveland Cavs Updates
Either way, he’d be a good target for this team. Johnson is an elite three-point shooter and a competent, versatile defender. On the other hand, he could be a little bit expensive for them.
Could they find a cheaper option from the Nets?
Royce O’Neale
On the other hand, the Nets could retain Johnson. If they do, they’ll probably have to make some other moves. Specifically, they’ll be looking to dump salary. if so, they ought to move players who are redundant with the rest of their roster. See where we’re going with this?
Royce O’Neale is not on Johnson’s level. With that said, he’s a rugged defender and reliable floor spacer. This would be a perfect addition to this Cleveland Cavaliers roster.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Cam Johnson, Brooklyn Nets & Cleveland Cavs Updates
He’s also affordable. O’Neale is on a bargain contract and would enhance this team. With that said, the Cavs may prefer to hunt for a bigger fish by trading Allen. If so, this next target should suit them perfectly.
OG Anunoby
This may be a long shot. The Cavaliers are low on draft capital. They’re generally low on assets. They may not have what it takes to make the best offer for OG Anunoby.
On the other hand, Allen is only a year removed from an All-Star appearance. He’ll have considerable value on the open market. Meanwhile, the Cavs still have some pick swaps they can offer.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Cam Johnson, Brooklyn Nets & Cleveland Cavs Updates
If Jakob Poeltl leaves the Raptors in free agency, they may be interested in Allen. Otherwise, this could be a three-team deal. However it shakes out, adding Anunoby should get the Cavaliers out of the first round next year.
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