Nov 22, 2014; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Iman Shumpert (21) shoots a free throw during the third quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Madison Square Garden. New York Knicks won 91-83. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Perimeter Defender
One of the reasons that the Cavs need a rim protector is that their perimeter defense struggles stopping anyone driving to the hole. While Kyrie Irving has really improved his defense this year, he is still limited by the rules in the NBA. There are a few perimeter defenders that could help the Cavs
- Corey Brewer – The Cavs have been linked to this lanky big guard already this season. With Kevin Martin recently being lost for awhile, Brewer is likely even more available. With his quick feet and hands, along with his long arms, Brewer does a solid job of keeping opponents from blowing by him.
- DeMarre Carroll – The Atlanta Hawks are spinning their wheels a bit this season as they try to figure out who they are as a team. Carroll often starts at small forward for the Hawks but is best suited to come off the bench as a 3 and D guy.
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- Thabo Sefolosha – The former Oklahoma City Thunder starting 2 guard also is with the Hawks now. He hasn’t developed much of an offensive game but is still a solid defender. He backs up Carroll and will likely be available as well.
- Caron Butler – Just kidding, it isn’t 2006 anymore and Butler only seems like a solid defender in name, and likely his own head.
- Iman Shumpert – Shumpert’s name value got a big boost a couple years ago as a young guy playing in New York. He never was as good as his name, and hair cut, but was really hurt by a knee injury. The Knicks are likely to build for the future, which doesn’t include Shump. Maybe the Cavs can pull in both Dalembert and Shumpert at the same time (unlikely).
- Luc Richard Mbah A Moute – Freed from the Bucks now stuck on the 76ers. Luc Richard is a long, effort driven defender that could help the Cavs. He starts for the 76ers but that isn’t a sign of his talent but the team’s lack of talent. The 6 year pro, who could be had for cheap if the Sixers get another asset, is averaging 8.1 points per game and 5.1 rebounds.
That is a quick look at GM David Griffin’s Black Friday shopping list. The Cavs could always look for a backup point guard, Matthew Dellavedova‘s return should help, and Griff will always want more shooting. Ray Allen seems to be lurking in any of the Cavs decisions but there are 15 roster spots and these two needs seem a bit higher on the list.
Who do you think should be on the Cavs Black Friday Shopping List?