NBA Rumor: Cavs Interested in PF David West
The NBA Rumor Mill has stayed hot, even on this early July 4th morning. (Happy July 4th everyone). We have tried to keep you as up to date as we could with all the rumors surrounding our beloved Cleveland Cavaliers and this mornings could be a big one. According to a report, the Cavs are interested in former Indiana Pacers forward David West:
I'm hearing the Cleveland Cavaliers have "huge interest" in David West. Most definitely aligns with his desire to play for a contender
— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) July 4, 2015
Update: Cavs not only have interest but the feeling must be mutual as the Cavs have taken the lead over the Spurs in a chance to sign the veteran big guy, according to Woj:
Sources: Cleveland hasn't only worked itself into contention for David West, Cavs took slight lead on Spurs. Pop isn't done recruiting yet.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 4, 2015
West has been a staple of the division rival Pacers for years but opted out of an over $12 million dollar final year of his contract. He reportedly is more interested in being with a Title contender than money. He has been linked to the San Antonio Spurs and Washington Wizards in the past couple of days with the Cavs another fitting contender to be hot on his trail.
Last year West average almost 12 points and 7 rebounds a game, his lowest totals since his second year in the league. The hard nosed West has decent range for a power forward and provides his team with a high basketball IQ and toughness.
For the Cavs, West would backup Kevin Love at the power forward spot, with Timofey Mozgov and Tristan Thompson manning the center position. The 34 year old would not be asked to play huge minutes but would provide a little spacing that is missing with the rest of the Cavs bigs outside of Love. West doesn’t have 3 point range but has consistently improved his shot over the years.
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The Cavs can only offer West their mini mid-level exception, around $3.5 million. Most other contenders have about the same amount of money to offer, although the San Antonio Spurs could have much more if LaMarcus Aldridge turns them down in free agency.
The Cavs have been connected, and have needs for, a backup point guard, a wing and a big who can shoot a little bit. Getting West to sign could direct how the Cavs use their Brendan Haywood contract trade chip and what veterans they pursue to sign on for the minimum.
For now this NBA Rumor should excite Cavs fans as West has a lot left in the tank and could really solidify an already very good big man rotation.
What do you think about David West possibly joining the Cavs based on this NBA Rumor?