Cavaliers rumored to be discussing three-team trade for sniper

Would the Cavaliers do this trade?

There are a number of steps to work through in deciding whether this is a trade worth doing for the Cleveland Cavaliers. First, is Malik Beasley a player that would help the team? That answer is quite clearly a yes. Beasley is one of the best high-volume shooters in the league, a true movement shooter with the shot versatility to get it off on the move and over contests. The Cavs don’t have a player like Beasley and they could certainly use one.

The next step is whether or not adding Beasley is worth losing Caris LeVert. Defensively it’s a step-down, but the Cavs do have other good wing defenders. LeVert’s offensive skillset is at least partially (if not majorly) redundant, while Beasley’s shooting fits around anyone. It’s close enough that the Cavs can certainly justify the swap.

Finally, is there a better deal out there? Tim Hardaway Jr. is another popular trade target as a volume shooter, but Beasley is unquestionably a more versatile gunner and on a cheaper, shorter deal. Doug McDermott wouldn’t see the court in meaningful games. A more balanced 3-and-D wing is the best fit, but those aren’t really available at this deadline.

The Cavaliers only have one real bullet in the chamber, so they need to pick their target carefully. If Malik Beasley is that guy he will almost certainly cost Caris LeVert. The Hawks and Jazz are both difficult sells to balance out the three-team trade, but if it’s on the table the Cavs could very well say yes.