Can the Cavs Keep the Band Together?

Jan 28, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Dorell Wright (1) drives between Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (13) and guard J.R. Smith (5) in the second quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

J.R. Smith

A player whose performance has shocked us since his acquisition. J.R. Swish has been the perfect compliment to the team. He doesn’t take many two point shots, hits his catch and shoot 3s and has played a surprisingly solid defense. Smith has a $6.4 million dollar player option for next year. At the time of the trade there was little thought that he would opt out. Now? Anything is possible. At this point it might be best for the Cavs if Smith does pick up that option.

Tristan Thompson

TT turned down a big contract extension during the off-season and it looks like it paid off. He hasn’t transitioned into a stellar offensive player but has just gotten better at what he is good at and has minimized his mistakes.  He turned down 4 years and $52 million, reportedly, so he will at least be looking for $14 million. The Cavs will place a Qualifying Offer of just over $7 million on Tristan to make him a Restricted Free Agent. If Love stays, the Cavs will likely pay at least $14 million for their 1st big off the bench.

Iman Shumpert

Shump has teased for some years but now on a talented team, and in a contract year, he has blossomed. Shump may never be a knock down shooter but his form is good and he continues to develop. He is a good open floor player, can drive to the hole and generally finishes well (Been interesting how many dunks he has blown for the Cavs). Defense is his calling card. He has played great against a number of good offensive players. Now he could be looking for starting SG money and opportunity. The Cavs will place the Qualifying Offer of just under $4 million to restrict Shump. He is likely to get around mid-level ($5-6 million) offer from someone.

Matthew Dellavedova

Delly was a player that Cavs fans wanted to pay to get out of town. After Game 6, Delly is a new Cleveland folk hero. He can also join Thompson and Shumpert as a restricted free agent. The 6’4″ guard has made his mark as a defender but has greatly improved on the offensive end. He knows what he isn’t great at and has improved his catch and shoot ability. His qualifying offer is for just over $1 million but it will be interesting if someone tries to snipe away the young Aussie as the Cavs try to deal with the rest of their roster.

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