Cavaliers Buzz: Markkanen, Trade Rumors, Simmons’ Market Value

While Lauri Markkanen will see the majority of his minutes at the power forward position, Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff plans to get him some run at the three in bigger lineups.

“It’s one of those things where I believe he’s one of our best players,” Bickerstaff said (via Kelsey Russo of The Athletic).

“So we have to do what we can to get him on the floor so he can help us. His versatility helps. Right now, you see the strength of our bigs and the fact that they are so versatile and they can play next to each other, you can get them out there on the floor.”

The Cavs have a loaded frontcourt after bringing in Markkanen, drafting Evan Mobley, and re-signing Jarrett Allen.

Cavaliers Continue to Have Interest in Ben Simmons

The Cavaliers continue to have interest in Ben Simmons and that’s unlikely to change as long the All-Star is still available, as Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com relays.

One NBA scout recently told Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report that the team should be hesitant to give up too much for Simmons, as our own Sameer Kumar relayed.

“Obviously, he’s a really good player, mostly defensively,” the scout said. “I’m not sure he’s a leader, seems to be a quiet personality that does his own thing. I would hesitate to give up a lot.”

“He’d make [the Cavs] better, but you’ll still need scoring, shooting, and leadership,” he added. “Best case, he has a huge chip on his shoulder and comes in to prove a point and show improvement in all areas. Worst case, he’s the same player in a smaller media market and can just collect paychecks without all the pressure to win.”

The Sixers reportedly have a high asking price for Simmons and Cleveland isn’t alone in their pursuit. The Pistons, Raptors, Pacers, and Wolves are all eyeing the disgruntled Philadelphia star.