Brendan Haywood: 5 Trade Scenarios Still Possible

Apr 11, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Kevin Martin (23) attempts a shot over Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) in the first quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves have a history of making moves with each other. Specifically the Kevin Love/Andrew Wiggins last year and the Tyus Jones trade during this year’s draft. Seems like they have comfort in dealing with each other and could hook up for another deal.

The T’Wolves have Kevin Garnett as their veteran mentor type. With Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns, the young Wolves have their foundation which Jones will help with. Zach Lavine and Gary Neal can handle the two guard spot along side Ricky Rubio and Jones at the lead. Shabazz Muhammad can play both the 2 and the 3. At this point paying Kevin Martin for two more seasons at over $7 million doesn’t make a lot of sense. Instead they clear the salary and get their 2nd Round pick back,

For the Cavs, Martin gives them a solid veteran who can shoot and create a little. His contract is the minimal amount the Cavs can take back with Haywood’s deal which would save Gilbert between $9 and 15 million in tax payments.

Martin put up 20 points on 43% from the field. His 3 point shooting was superb as the Wolves primary scorer last year. 39% from deep would be a perfect fit for the Cavs. Martin can start or come off the bench, like he did in 2012-13 with the Thunder. He still averaged 14 points, shooting 45% from the field and 43% from deep.

The Wolves are deep at the 4 and 5 spots. They could look to add the Cavs 2018 First Round pick in exchange for Gorgui Dieng or Adreian Payne, young bigs that could help the Cavs long term in different ways. They also could try to force Anthony Bennett on the Cavs to clear his salary. (I’ve not given up on him being productive but doubt the Cavs would want him back.)

How Likely? 50% – Martin is a perfect fit for the Cavs and the Wolves have the roster to move on from him and his salary. This trade should/would excite Cavs fans.

Next: Three for One