Rumors have continuously swirled this season regarding the Cavaliers’ interest in Clippers’ center, DeAndre Jordan. However, there hasn’t been a better time for the Cavs to put those rumors to rest, and, finally, acquire Jordan.
The Los Angeles Clippers appear to be moving in a different direction as they shocked the NBA world by shipping out five-time All-Star Blake Griffin to the Detroit Pistons. In return, the Clippers received a package constructed around Avery Bradley, Tobias Harris and Boban Marjanovic, as well as draft picks. How could the Cleveland Cavaliers play into that?
The Clippers and Pistons have agreed on a deal to trade Blake Griffin for Tobias Harris, Avery Bradley, Boban Marjanovic, a first-round and a second-round draft pick, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 29, 2018
With the Clippers just one game outside of the 8th seed, it appears that they have turned their attention towards the future, rather than attempting to contend this year. This move could cause domino effects throughout the organization regarding additional trades.
One effect, for example, could include the uncertain future of DeAndre Jordan. Not only has Jordan been rumored in trade talks all season but contract negotiations with the organization have reportedly stalled. With Chris Paul and now Blake Griffin gone, there is a reason to believe Jordan could be the next man out.
According to both ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Marc Stein of the New York Times, the Clippers are indeed looking to unload Jordan.
Sources: Clippers will continue to pursue packages of young players and picks in talks for DeAndre Jordan and Lou Williams.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 29, 2018
The Clippers clearly believe they can make it onto LeBron James' free-agent short list come July and, according to league sources, will indeed move DeAndre Jordan and Lou Williams before the Feb. 8 trade deadline if they can find workable deals to help them in that quest
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) January 30, 2018
There has been no better time for the Cavaliers to jump into trade talks than right now. It is obvious that the Clippers are not looking to contend this season. In addition, Jordan has been on the trade block for months and a contract extension doesn’t seem likely anymore.
To add, Cleveland does have the assets in order to make a trade for Jordan work.
Outside of the ‘untouchable’ Brooklyn Nets pick, the Cavaliers have the ability to offer players like Tristan Thompson, Iman Shumpert, Ante Zizic and possibly Cedi Osman. In addition, Cleveland has their own 2018 first round draft pick, as well as a number of future second rounders.
According to Undisputed’s Skip Bayless, there is mutual interest between the Cavaliers and DeAndre Jordan.
A source told Undisputed today that the Cavs are interested in trading for DeAndre Jordan and that he would be interested in joining LeBron's team. But that wouldn't help the Cavs much vs Golden State.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) January 30, 2018
As the trade deadline inches closer and closer, more pressure falls on Cleveland to institute a trade. With DeAndre Jordan being more available than ever, it’s time the Cavaliers make a move for him.
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The ball is now in Altman’s court. Let’s get this done.