Rumor: Iman Shumpert’s ‘Desire’ Concerns Cavs

Yesterday’s rumor that the Cleveland Cavaliers have made Iman Shumpert available now have a reason behind them.

According to Brian Windhorst, and tweeted out by our friend Michael Young, the Cavs are concerned about Shump’s desire:

Questioning a player’s desire is a huge thing. The questioning of a professional athlete’s heart better be backed up by a good source for Windy to throw it out there.

This is especially interesting because Shumpert is one of the few Cavs that seem to always be giving their all on the court. Shumpert’s calling card is his hustle, defense and great hands. Many say that those things are all “effort” in the NBA.

For the Cavs to be questioning his desire they have to have seen things behind the scenes. Early in his career, some saw a high upside for Shump. He looked like he could develop his outside shot, create for himself and even pass some after playing some point in college.

Early in his career, some saw a high upside for Shump. He looked like he could develop his outside shot, create for himself and even pass some after playing some point in college. The Knicks spurned a variety of offers for the young swingman because of the hopes of his development.

Injuries have been blamed for his lack of improvement but could it be that he doesn’t “desire” getting better at the things he isn’t already good at? It takes a lot of time and practice to get more consistent with your jump shot and feel on the court.

Injuries have cleared taken some of that time away from him. Has his rap, clothing and other interests take away the rest?

The birth of his child this year should naturally do some of this. As a father, especially one who delivered his kid, his child should take his attention.

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When you hear artists talk about their work, they often talk about it as their child. Their creation. For Shump, his rap and clothing line are his creations. Add to that his child and a new 4 year, $40 million contract and it is easy to imagine his “desire” waning.

It is possible the Cavs already have a deal close or in place for Shump. It would make little sense for this kind of slander to come out from the team if they are still trying to deal him. His trade value, especially with his contract, isn’t high as it is. Adding concerns about his heart could squash any hopes of a deal.

What do you think of Windy’s rumor on Iman Shumpert’s “desire”?