Even though it’s the All-Star Break this weekend, it doesn’t mean the Cavaliers‘ front office was shut down for business. A couple of weeks ago it was announced that Kevin Pangos and Russian super-league power-house CSKA Moscow, his former team, were nearing a deal worth $6 million. While it was widely reported, it was never confirmed, so his future with the team stayed up in the air.
The Cavaliers waived Kevin Pangos on Saturday, paving the way for a defined role for the more impressive guard Brandin Goodwin
After seeing very little playing time this year for the Cavaliers, he was waived Saturday, and is heading straight for Moscow. The reported deal is still in place and he plans to join the Euro-League club sometime within the next week.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have waived guard Kevin Pangos, league sources told @hoopshype.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) February 19, 2022
The Cavs waived the 29-year old veteran, probably because they knew he wanted to go overseas to play again. I can’t imagine it was a tough decision, considering the rise of former “dunk city” guard Brandon Goodwin. He was signed to a two-way deal after the front office waived Tacko Fall in early January.
When All-Star point guard was sidelined with back soreness, Goodwin stepped up in his absence. His play culminated on a New Year’s Eve game versus the Pelicans. Without Garland, Goodwin scored 21 points and led the Cavaliers to a close win over the Pelicans, 93-90. He put up 21 points while shooting 8-of-11 from the field and 3-of-4 from deep.
I would assume all the current Cavaliers wish the best for Pangos, who came to the Cavaliers without really knowing what his role would be. He averaged just seven minutes for Cleveland this year while averaging only 1.7 points per game and 1.3 assists per game.
Pangos is a player to watch overseas, as he was a First-Team All-EuroLeague last season, and led the entire league in assists per game with 6.7. He’s also a solid shooter, shooting over 40% from behind the arc during his entire basketball career.
I wish the best for Pangos, and hope he returns to his All-EuroLeague level. However, I think I can speak for all Cavs fans when I say, we’re happy to have Brandon Goodwin around.