The Cleveland Cavaliers had a very busy day leading up to the 3 pm NBA trade deadline. In what seemed like a 2-hour flurry of activity, the Cavs roster got younger and much better defensively. In short, this is what the Cavs did:
- IN: Rodney Hood, George Hill, Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr., Kendrick Perkins
- OUT: Isaiah Thomas, Channing Frye. Jae Crowder, Iman Shumpert, Dwyane Wade, Derrick Rose
The word on the street is, GM Koby Altman and owner Dan Gilbert made all these moves without consulting LeBron James. A clear signal to James that he can re-sign if he wants, but whether he stays or goes, they will be fine and there is a new sheriff in town.
The Cavs managed to keep the Nets draft pick, which looks destined for the lottery, and they’ve got some good young players and if they hit the draft right are in good shape to rebuild if Bron leaves this summer. But, they may have another problem. According to ESPN’s Sean Marks the Cavs only have 2 roster spots left and now have a luxury tax bill of $50M.
The Cavaliers tax bill now jumps to $50M after the George Hill and Rodney Hood acquisition. Hill is under contract for $20M, $19M and $18M. There is $1M in guaranteed money for 2019-20. Hood will be a restricted free agent and has a cap hit of $2.4M. The Cavaliers now have 2 open roster spots available.
Nobody here is crying the blues for Dan Gilbert. He made his bed, and he’s got to lay in it. But one thing is certain, Cleveland is in better shape this go around when LeBron leaves than last time. Remember this team still has Kevin Love, add that lottery pick and this is a playoff team in the eastern conference.