Former rival could help Cavaliers win another title in proposed trade

The Cavaliers could win a title after this trade

The player that the Cleveland Cavaliers is missing is a true 3-and-D small forward. That fact has been hammered home ad nauseam for anyone who closely follows the rumors surrounding this team, but it’s also this roster’s only real weakness. They have four All-Star level players, solid veterans off the bench, and a glaring hole at the 3 in the starting lineup.

Harrison Barnes would step in as an excellent fit, a player who is comfortable toggling between the 3 and the 4 with plenty of championship pedigree. Barnes is a career 37.8 percent 3-point shooter, a strong rebounder and a scorer who can put the ball on the floor when called upon. Defensively he is strong, likely able to switch with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen against opposing frontcourt players to form a nearly impenetrable interior defense.

Barnes’ offensive creation allows him to help the offense for the next couple of seasons as Evan Mobley grows into that part of his game, and he helps a team ready to contend now. At 30 Barnes will soon exit his prime, but that’s fine; the Cavs need someone ready now, and they aren’t sacrificing a core piece or their long-term timeline to bring him in.

Rumors about Harrison Barnes being available are nothing new, and the Kings haven’t traded him yet. If they are open to this deal, however, the Cavs should call it in. Barnes’ fluky missed shots in 2016 helped the Cavs win a title, and his 2-way play now could help them win another when he puts on the Wine & Gold.