Cavs: 3 players still available they could sign in free agency
3 players still available Cavs could sign in free agency: Josh Hart
The Cavs and free agent wing Josh Hart have been linked in rumors multiple times this offseason. From the weeks leading into free agency, to the days before the draft when the Cavs were shopping Collin Sexton and the New Orleans Pelicans were a potential suitor, to now when Hart remains unsigned as the Pelicans remake their roster.
Josh Hart is a player who would help the Cavaliers on both ends of the court. He is a tough defender who can guard up the lineup despite standing just 6’5″ tall. Helped by excellent core strength and a 6’9″ wingspan he can pick up opposing guards or take on forwards.
Rebounding is one of Hart’s best strengths, as last year he averaged 8.0 rebounds in 28.7 minutes per game. The only non-big to average more was Russell Westbrook, and Hart basically tied with Luka Doncic for 21st in the entire league in rebounds-per-game. That’s an insane stat for a 6’5″ player who is not tracking his own shot because he’s a role player, not a ball-dominant star.
Hart is far from a perfect player, and he needs to bring his shooting around if he wants to start long-term. If he is willing to come off the bench, however, his 34.8 percent career mark from 3-point range can be better shouldered, especially given the hustle, the rebounding and the defense he brings to the table. An incredible cerebral player, Hart is the consumate role player every team wants in their rotation.
Right now Hart’s restricted free agent rights are still controlled by the Pelicans, and with just the mid-level exception to offer (around $10 million per season) they likely couldn’t make the offer sheet sharp enough to dissuade New Orleans from matching; nor should they, as the Cavs shouldn’t be breaking the bank on bench players, even high-level ones who could close for them.
If the discussions between Hart and the Pelicans deteriorate, and they are looking at the prospect of Hart taking his qualifying offer and walking for nothing next season, a small asset from Cleveland could persuade New Orleans to engage in a sign-and-trade, their term du jour of the offseason.
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Whether the team prioritizes shooting, athleticism or rebounding they need to prioritize someone. The market has advanced to the point where extreme values are to be had, and the Cavaliers could use a little value on their roster. Deciding which players to make a move on is always difficult, but fewer options means an easier decision. Here’s hoping the Cavs decide to finally make a move and bringing in one of thse three free agents.