Cleveland Cavaliers: Five valuable free agents still available

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CLEVELAND, OH – MAY 19: Greg Monroe #55 of the Boston Celtics goes to the basket against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on May 19, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Greg Monroe

In the 2010 NBA draft, the Detroit Pistons selected Greg Monroe with the seventh overall pick. Monroe was brought in as a dynamic big man who could eat the glass.

Monroe lived up to the expectations briefly.

From 2011-2016, Monroe averaged 9.0 rebounds per game. During this time, Monroe was top 10 in the league for offensive rebounding three-time and total rebounds twice. Monroe was becoming one of the best rebounders in the league.

Then, Monroe’s career took a rough turn.

Monroe was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he soon became more of a detriment than a benefit. Next, Monroe was shipped to Phoenix. The Suns bought out his contract after only five games.

Finally, the Boston Celtics picked up Monroe and brought him in as the 15th spot on the roster.

Monroe didn’t disappoint for Boston. Playing only 19 minutes per game, Monroe averaged 10.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Showing brief flashes of what he is still capable of in the rebounding department.

Monroe still serves a purpose in the NBA.

Rebounding will always be an important factor in the game of basketball. In addition, Monroe still has some touch on the offensive end. Last season, Monroe shot 56% from the field.

Signing Monroe would strengthen the Cavaliers frontcourt and give them an able replacement for Tristan Thompson. At 27-years-old, Monroe has a chance to be a productive player for the Cavaliers.