Cavs Likely to Chase Value Bigs with Free Agency Underway

If you’re the Cleveland Cavaliers, you already know what you need. And a playable backup big is likely at the top of your list this NBA free agency season.

The Cavs, of course, have already made some news this weekend — agreeing to a trade that sends wing Isaac Okoro to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for point guard Lonzo Ball. Cleveland is also re-signing guard Sam Merrill on a three-year contract.

All of this likely means the end of Ty Jerome in Cleveland after a banner regular season. Either way, it appears the backcourt and wing spots are taking shape, with Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Max Strus, Merrill, Ball and second-year man Jaylon Tyson all part of the mix (for now).

The frontcourt is a different story. Aside from starting center Jarrett Allen and power forward Evan Mobley, the rotation is in flux. Last year, the Cavs went with Tristan Thompson as the backup center — and while he hardly played, his leadership in the locker room cannot be understated.

That said, the Cavs are expected to move toward a big man who will get on the court and contribute. But good luck, as they have very little money to spend, given their status as a second-apron team. 

Nonetheless, they do have a little bit of cash to throw around, or at least can create some fairly easily, and there are some big men available who might take it.

Among the names to watch as NBA free agency tips off: Al Horford (Boston), Thomas Bryant (Indiana), Jericho Sims (New York), Paul Reed (Detroit) and Mason Plumlee (Phoenix), among others.

If any of these players were to agree to a deal with the Cavs, it would likely have to be for no more than one year and $3.6 million. For some of them and others like them, though, that might be the best they’re going to get.

On the bright side, one thing free agents like almost as much as money is an opportunity to play (and sometimes, an opportunity to shoot). In Cleveland, minutes behind Allen and Mobley won’t be a problem.

Keep in mind that players who are destined to sign one-year contracts for the veteran’s minimum aren’t likely to do so until later this summer, or even right before training camp in late September.

That’s OK if you’re the Cavaliers. You can explore many other ways to add talent between now and then, and if you’re the Cavaliers, you most definitely will.