NBA Trades: Cavaliers ultimate guide to the NBA trade deadline
By Tony Pesta
It is time to speedrun through a few of the most notable names mentioned in rumors. These players all seem to be available and can help the Cleveland Cavaliers in different ways.
NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade for? – Eric Gordon
The Houston Rockets have every reason to move on from one of the last remaining members of the good old days in Eric Gordon. They hold the worst record in the West and are officially in rebuild mode.
The streaky three-point threat is averaging 14.6 points on a blistering hot 44.5 percent clip from deep. He fits the Cavaliers’ need for secondary scoring in the backcourt and should be available for a low price.
NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade for? – Caris LeVert
Another secondary scoring option that has gained traction in trade rumors is Caris LeVert. The shifty guard who broke out as a skilled playmaker and slasher has put himself on the Cavs’ radar.
LeVert is an interesting fit in Cleveland. He only shoots 33.1 percent from the three-point line but is a good enough ball-handler to create shots for himself in the mid-range and in the paint (where he finishes 67.9 percent of his attempts).
The Cavs could use LeVert’s assistance in the backcourt while Collin Sexton is out. Plus, it’s possible he acts as a serviceable floor general on the bench moving forward.
NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade for? – Robert Covington
A veteran 3&D wing is about as good as it could get for the Cavaliers. They’ve had notable contributions from players like Dean Wade and Cedi Osman, but would be more comfortable with a proven asset like Robert Covington stepping in to help.
Covington has made a career off catch-and-shoot threes while providing sturdy defense on the perimeter. He fits their needs and can be acquired at the NBA trade deadline for a reasonable price.
NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade for? – Dennis Schroder
A former contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award, Dennis Schroder’s career has taken a turn since flaming out in the playoffs for the Los Angeles Lakers. His stock is at an all-time low despite being a valuable two-way player when engaged.
Schroder would join a winning culture in Cleveland and act as a backup guard to Darius Garland. His playmaking chops and ability to harass opposing ball-handlers would take a mountain of pressure off of DG’s shoulders each night.
NBA Trades: Who should the Cavaliers trade for? – Harrison Barnes
There is not a more perfect player for the Cavaliers to target. Harrison Barnes excels at being a complimentary offensive piece with reliable shot creation and catch-and-shoot capabilities.
His length and size on defense allow him to defend multiple positions and cover the perimeter like a true wing.
Barnes is an obvious fit in Cleveland but it is uncertain if the Sacramento Kings, who are in the midst of a disastrous rebuild, are interested in moving their veteran forward.