Not often can you say that a player has become a big part of a franchise despite not being one of the best players on the team. The Cleveland Cavaliers got lucky with Channing Frye.
The Cleveland Cavaliers made a move to acquire Channing Frye from the Orlando Magic at the 2015-16 NBA Trade Deadline in the hopes of bolstering their bigs rotation while improving their perimeter shooting. It was a trade that was met with backlash due to the fact that long-time fan favorite Anderson Varejao was being shipped out of town in the move.
How could Frye even come close to leaving the impact Varejao did on Northeast Ohio?
More from King James Gospel
- 3 possible starting lineups for Cleveland Cavaliers in 2023-24
- The Cavaliers may have snagged a hidden gem in Craig Porter Jr.
- 4 players the Cavaliers should pursue in 2024 free agency
- 6 players Cavaliers might replace Jarrett Allen with by the trade deadline
- This stat is one to keep an eye on for Cavaliers’ Max Strus in years ahead
Well, I guess the answer is pretty simple now.
Frye came over to the Cavaliers and not soon after was being recognized as one of the most personable players on the roster, right along with Richard Jefferson. The two paired up to create the “Road Trippin’ Podcast” and it was a smash hit.
Everyone in Cleveland was hip to the sensation the podcast had become, with a number of NBA players hopping on to discuss with Frye, Jefferson, and former Cavaliers sideline reporter Allie Clifton.
Frye’s personality really shined through that outlet.
That made him more of fan-favorite, just like the previously-traded Varejao. Funny how things work, right?
Of course, winning an NBA Championship in 2016 will also be a part of Frye’s legacy with the Cavaliers.
He stepped up when called upon and delivered, like his 27-point performance against the Atlanta Hawks in the second round of the playoffs. Frye splashed seven of his nine three-pointers en route to Cleveland taking a 3-0 lead in that particular series.
On the flip side, when Frye didn’t get used in big games, he never made it about himself. He was always a professional and made sure to help the team in any capacity he could. That’s something that you don’t take for granted out of a player.
Frye announced that he will retire after this season, doing so on Twitter yesterday.
Yes, i am really retiring. It’s been a amazing ride. I’ve had the chance to have some amazing teammates and play for some great coaches. I’m gonna miss it but I’m super excited to see the other side of the fence!
— Channing Frye (@channingfrye) March 1, 2019
However, the fact that he came back to finish his career with the Cavaliers, along with rejoining the team while he knew they were rebuilding, is a testament to his character. He wanted to finish his run in the spot where he will always be known as a champion but wanted to also provide knowledge to the younger guys.
That’s what I’ll remember about Frye, a Cavalier that won’t be forgotten.