3 buyout bigs for Cavs to sign to upgrade bench

The Cleveland Cavaliers are in a position not only to maximize their roster for the playoffs, but to squeeze the most out of every regular-season game to ensure they don’t slip out of the Eastern Conference’s Top 6 spots. To do that, you need a deep team.

The Cavs have leaned on their depth for long stretches this season, surviving the loss of first Collin Sexton, then Ricky Rubio to season-ending injuries. They have worked hard to shore up their guard depth, trading for Rajon Rondo and Caris LeVert and signing Brandon Goodwin to a two-way contract.

Yet they have another potential depth issue, and that is at the center position. At first glance the sheer size of the Cavs’ lineup suggests they are set on bigs. Yet look closer, and you see that the only playable center off the bench is Kevin Love. If he or Jarrett Allen misses time, the team has to call on journeyman center Ed Davis.

The Cavs want to play big, which means they need plenty of bigs. What are three potential buyout candidates to sign to upgrade their bench depth?

Davis was signed primarily for his locker room presence, not to be a frequent presence on the court. Absences from all of the team’s bigs during the season, for COVID protocols or injuries, have pushed him into the lineup more often than this team would like. With a tough and busy final stretch the Cavs may want a more reliable option on the roster in the event Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley or Kevin Love misses time.

While one potential target was a reunion with Tristan Thompson, he is headed to the Chicago Bulls. What other potential buyout candidates could be signed to bolster the bench? Let’s look at three players, two veterans and one surprisingly young center who may be options for the Cavs.