Pros and cons of Cavs trading Nuggets for Aaron Gordon

Final verdict on Gordon trade

Aaron Gordon is a very talented player, one humble enough to accept a new role in Denver and give top effort doing the less glamorous things as the Nuggets needed him to. That’s the kind of attitude the Cavs want to add to their team culture.

They also desperately need a small forward-sized player to come in and fill that position; Markkanen was solid last year and the “Tower City” lineup was effective, but getting a more versatile player in that position will unlock this team’s ceiling even further. Gordon’s ability to defend multiple positions speaks to that.

On the other hand, the lack of a consistent outside shot is very concerning, and it will ultimately be the deciding factor here. The Cavs should look to add a strong defender at the 3, without question, but they also have an even greater need for offensive impact. Gordon’s cutting will be muted with Mobley and Allen in the lane, and their impact will in turn be limited if defenders are sagging off of Gordon outside.

Players such as Jerami Grant and Harrison Barnes are worse defenders than Gordon but much better shooters and scorers; that balance is probably a better fit for what the Cavs need right now. Add in the likely stout cost to add Gordon, and the Cavs probably need to pass on pursuing this particular player.

Final Verdict: Pass