What about a multi-team trade to upgrade the Cavs roster..
Yes this would be a minor detour from the Suns plan, but if it were to fall into place it could be huge for the Cavaliers going forward. About a week ago, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps (subscription required) proposed a three-team trade involving the Cavs, New Orleans Pelicans, and Indiana Pacers.
In this trade, the Cavs would trade Collin Sexton, Larry Nance Jr. and Kevin Love to the Pelicans. The Pacers would give up Myles Turner to the Pelicans, but acquire Steven Adams, and this year’s number ten overall pick. Finally, the Cavs would end up with Eric Bledsoe’s bloated contract, but also with Brandon Ingram.
The man from Duke has blossomed into a great scorer in the league, averaging almost 24 points per game the last two seasons. He would also fit very well in the Cavs lineup at the four. He can slide in next to Jarrett Allen and form a formidable frontcourt. It’s not the perfect trade, but it would be one worth considering if you are the Cavaliers front office.
J.B. Bickerstaff has earned another season, but he should feel the heat.
J.B. Bickerstaff hasn’t had the best situation to deal with in Cleveland. He came on as interim head coach after John Beilein resigned from the position in 2020. Since then he has a record of 27-56. Not good, not good at all.
But like I said, he hasn’t been put in the best situations. He’s earned the right to coach for at least another year, but he shouldn’t get too comfortable. With the ever-changing landscape of the NBA, it’s seemingly safe to say that the Cavaliers should be currently looking at possible future head coaches.
However, the man in charge right now is Bickerstaff, so he needs to show improvement this season at head coach, especially with the luxury of a top-five pick.
In the end, it’s impossible to predict the upcoming years of a rebuild, but if the Cavs loosely follow the Suns blueprint, they should be in good shape come 2023.