The trade deadline is near, Cleveland must decide what to do
By JR DePierro
With only one week left until the trade deadline (February 8th), the Cleveland Cavaliers have yet to make any moves. Time is running out for Cleveland and it seems like they could use some help.
Lately, the Cleveland Cavaliers have been struggling mightily. They’ve had issues with holding onto leads and losing a handful of games that way. It seems like the whole team has no interest in playing defense whatsoever.
Unfortunately for Cleveland, the only time any defense seems to be played is when LeBron James sets the tone to do so. These defensive issues could arguably be blamed on the team’s chemistry. A lack of communication and engagement could also lead to Cleveland’s defensive troubles.
Nevertheless, maybe a fresh face that brings consistent quality defense is what’s needed. Two players that would benefit Cleveland defensively are Tyreke Evans and DeAndre Jordan.
Evans not only displays solid defense, he is also averaging 19.5 points per game. Jordan, averaging 11.8 points and 14.9 rebounds per game, can use his athleticism and length to bring a defensive presence under the basket.
Regardless of whoever Cleveland may have their eye on, the clock is ticking.
Furthermore, Cleveland will possibly have competition when attempting to acquire a player. At the end of the day, Cleveland isn’t the only team looking to make a trade and there are other teams that have more to offer.
In terms of Cleveland’s chemistry, it seems to be slowly progressing. Of course with Kevin Love, who suffered a fractured finger against Detroit on Tuesday, expected to be out for six to eight weeks, it slows the progress down even more so.
Regardless of the issues, Cleveland is dealing with, many would still consider them the best team in the Eastern Conference. However, the panic to get a deal done might suggest otherwise.
One thing Cleveland shouldn’t lack is confidence. There is plenty of talent on this team, the question is how to utilize it best. If there happens to be a potential trade, head coach Tyronn Lue will have his work cut out for him.
Must Read: Tyreke Evans could fit in nicely for the Cleveland Cavaliers
If and when a trade does occur, hopefully, for the sake of the Cleveland Cavaliers, we will all begin to notice a defensive surge that carries on throughout the post-season.