Cleveland Cavaliers: 15 NBA stars you forgot played for the Cavs

By Tony Pesta | Mar 8, 2020

NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 4: Ben Wallace #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the New York Knicks on February 4, 2009 at Madison Square Garden 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 Nick Laham/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by GEORGE FREY / AFP) (Photo credit should read GEORGE FREY/AFP via Getty Images) /

14. Kevin Johnson (1987-88)

Not many people remember Kevin Johnson at all. One of the more underrated players in league history, Johnson reached five All-NBA teams and played in three All-Star games during his 12-year career.

It all began in Cleveland for Johnson. The No. 7 pick in the 1988 NBA Draft, the rookie played in just 52 games for the Cavaliers before being traded to the Phoenix Suns where he would spend the rest of his playing days.

His role with the Cavaliers was extremely limited, hardly playing more than 20 minutes and averaging only 7.3 points per game.

It didn’t take long for Johnson to hit his stride once being traded. In his sophomore season, he was named the league’s Most Improved Player by averaging 20.4 points and 12.2 assists.

In exchange for Johnson, the Cavaliers received Larry Nance. The high-flying big man spent seven seasons with the Cavs and had his jersey retired by the franchise, only for his son to later wear the same number for today’s team.

Johnson went on to find much success in Phoenix as a slashing playmaker. He had exciting athleticism and was a shifty ball handler. Many have compared him to a prototype version of Kyrie Irving, minus the efficient 3-point shooting.

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