NBA Trades: Cavaliers ultimate guide to the NBA trade deadline

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DECEMBER 28: Ricky Rubio #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the third quarter of a NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on December 28, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana, NBA Trades: Cavaliers ultimate guide to the NBA trade deadline. 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 Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

In order to receive something in the NBA, you have to give something up. Who can the Cleveland Cavaliers afford to include in a deal this February?

NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade away? – Ricky Rubio

As much as it pains me to say, Ricky Rubio is the most expendable and logical asset to include in a trade.

The 11-year veteran was playing some of the best basketball of his career in Cleveland before suffering a season-ending ACL injury. He was a key component to their success, taking on the role of a complementary ball-handler and floor general.

However, his knee injury will hold him out for the remainder of the year and a solid chunk of next season. By the time he returns, he’ll be 32 years old.

Rubio was incredibly helpful and could have been a long-term veteran asset for this team. Now, it makes more sense for Cleveland to part ways with Rubio and get something tangible in return as soon as possible.

Due to Rubio’s contract ending this summer, the injured guard could be of value to teams looking for cap relief.

NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade away? – NBA Draft picks

A good deal always needs a sweetener.

The Cavaliers rightfully feel they have transitioned from rebuilding to competing. This means their upcoming NBA Draft picks should be on the table.

With so many young assets like Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, Isaac Okoro, Collin Sexton and Jarrett Allen already on the roster, Cleveland should look to package a draft pick and Rubio in order to maximize their return at the NBA trade deadline.

NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade away? – The untouchables

There are a few players on the roster who have earned the tag of “untouchable.”

In my eyes, these names would be Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley and Collin Sexton. This group has proven to be vital to Cleveland’s long-term success.

Anyone else, while not as expandable as the other assets listed, is fair game.

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