The Cleveland Cavaliers were tied for the fifth-best record in the NBA during the regular season, but they failed to get out of the first round of the playoffs. The shocking five-game defeat at the hands of the Knicks left them searching for answers about their viability as a contender moving forward.
The Cavs’ massive question heading into the offseason revolves around Evan Mobley’s best position moving forward. Should he play the four or five? The answer has direct impact on Jarrett Allen and his future. If Mobley is viewed as more of a five to gain some valuable floor spacing and defensive versatility, it could force Cleveland to trade Allen to the highest bidder.
Allen is a 25-year-old All-Star that would draw interest from across the league. Could the Cavs trade him for a package that improves their odds of winning next season?
Jarrett Allen trades that get Cleveland Cavaliers closer to title contention
5. Cavaliers add two key role players and top-ten pick
The Cavaliers have two undersized star guards, so they need size and versatility on the wing. Getting a starting-caliber 3-and-D wing is the team’s top priority this offseason, and this trade also offers them the shot at improving their defense and adding a top-ten pick.
Bullock and Kleber played key roles in the Mavericks’ 2022 run to the conference finals, and they could replicate that in Cleveland. The 6’6 forward is a 3-and-D wing that can defend on or off the ball. He may not be a true lockdown option, but he is solid with versatility. Kleber can guard on the perimeter, space the floor, and protect the rim. He would give the Cavs a big-man shooter at the four or the five.
Dallas would also be sending the tenth pick to the Cavaliers for them to add another young wing to develop.
Yes, Cleveland is giving up the best player in this trade, but making this deal gives the Cavaliers a better chance to win in the playoffs. Maxi Kleber and Reggie Bullock can both play key roles, and they get a shot at adding a star in the draft with the tenth pick. It is a gamble, but one the Cavs should take if given the opportunity.