3 burning questions we hope are answered at Cavs Media Day
3 burning questions for Cavs Media Day: Is anyone else signing extensions?
The Cleveland Cavaliers have four players eligible for a contract extension, after agreeing to a deal with Dean Wade on Saturday evening. That move, although for a modest $18.5 million total over three seasons, signaled that the Cavs are not fighting to hold open cap space for next summer.
If that is the case, then other extensions become much more likely if the Cavs decide they want that player around. The question then becomes who they see as a part of the team’s long-term future, and who is willing to accept the number offered in an extension.
Kevin Love could agree to an extension starting at a much lower number than his current $29 million, ensuring the franchise icon is around to continue overseeing a potent bench attack. He is unlikely to have a huge market next summer and seemed to enjoy his fit on the Cavs a year ago, and locking up now would mitigate injury risk for himself. Are the Cavs interested?
The other big name is Caris LeVert. After moving a first-round pick and a premium second for LeVert at February’s NBA Trade Deadline, the former Brooklyn Nets and Indiana Pacers guard is on an expiring contract this year. Do the Cavs see a long-term role for him with Donovan Mitchell now entrenched as the second backcourt starter?
Finally, both Dylan Windler and Lamar Stevens are technically up for extensions. Neither seems likely. Windler has proven very little in his career and will be a restricted free agent next summer if he does show any pop, while Stevens has clearly fallen behind Dean Wade in the pecking order.
Are the Cavs in discussions with any of these players for extensions? Are any conversations being prioritized? The Cavs already locked down Darius Garland to a max rookie extension, so the most important deal is done. Do any other players officially hitch their wagons to the Cleveland Cavaliers before the season begins?