Cavs face trade deadline limits, with second-apron pressure

When it comes to trade season, the Cavaliers are operating with little margin for error.

Cleveland carries a franchise record $394 million payroll and is currently the only team above the NBA’s second apron, per ESPN’s Bobby Marks.

That financial reality limits what the front office can realistically do ahead of Thursday’s deadline.

Even after earning the top seed in the Eastern Conference last season, the Cavs now sit fifth in the East, making it logical to at least explore trade options.

Still, a major roster shakeup similar to last year’s De’Andre Hunter acquisition is not expected.

Second apron restrictions prevent the Cavs from taking back more salary in a trade, combining contracts, sending cash, or signing certain waived players.

Moves are still possible. The team swapped Isaac Okoro for Lonzo Ball over the summer. But meaningful upgrades are harder to pull off under the current rules.

Injuries have added another layer of difficulty. The Cavs have already used 25 different starting lineups, and last season’s most common five of Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen has yet to start together this year.

One possible direction is cleaning up the books for next season. Cleveland could have its first-round pick frozen for a second straight year if it stays above the second apron.

Marks notes the rise of Jaylon Tyson could make Hunter and his $24.9 million salary for next season a potential trade piece.

Tyson is averaging 14.4 points as a starter, shooting 55.5 percent from the field and 47.7 percent from three, and recently scored a career-high 39 points in Philadelphia.

The Cavs also have an open roster spot, giving them flexibility to trade for a minimum player, sign a buyout candidate, or convert Nae’Qwan Tomlin’s two-way deal.

So, yes, moves can be made. The Cavs will just have to get even more creative than usual.