Cavs killer could become the fifth starter in proposed trade

The Cleveland Cavaliers have a lot of star power. Donovan Mitchell is an MVP candidate, Darius Garland is one of the league’s best passers, Jarrett Allen is the pinnacle of a pick-and-roll center and rim protector, and Evan Mobley is something we’ve never seen before as a versatile defender.

What they don’t have is a clear and obvious option at small forward. Last season Lauri Markkanen played out of position at the 3 to solid results, but he is now in Utah on track to make his first All-Star team. Dean Wade might be the best option, but he’s been sidelined with a knee injury and doesn’t offer any on-ball creation. Caris LeVert and Lamar Stevens have positives and glaring negatives.

In approaching the trade season, therefore, the Cavs have two primary needs to address. The first is a movement shooter, and we discussed one option earlier in the week. Now let’s look to the starting small forward spot. Can the Cavs make a deal that will fill that spot?

The Cleveland Cavaliers can upgrade at forward by trading for this Cavs killer

There is a player on the trade market that could fit the bill, a 6’9″ forward on the Washington Wizards. The Cavaliers will know him well as he tends to always play well against Cleveland, including a pair of back-breaking 3-pointers in an early season showdown last year. That player is Kyle Kuzma.

Should the Cavs make a deal to add this “Cavs killer” to the roster, presumably to start him at the 3? He’s averaging a career-best 21.5 points per game for the Wizards and is going to be coveted by a number of teams. Should the Cavs join the fray?