5 Jarrett Allen trades that get Cavaliers closer to title contention
By Tyler Watts
3. Nets made an offer the Cleveland Cavaliers cannot refuse
The Nets have dismantled their roster over the last year with a focus on adding wings and draft capital. Gone are Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden, but Brooklyn still made the playoffs, and they have little incentive to fully rebuild as the Rockets control their draft picks.
Still, the Nets’ are projected to be in the middle if they keep the status quo. They are hopeful Mikal Bridges can take a step forward, but Brooklyn needs more star power to be a playoff contender. Could they trade their wing depth for the All-Star big man?
Allen spent his first three and a half years in Brooklyn, so the Nets are familiar with his play. He showed flashes of his potential and still could take his game to another level as he reaches his prime. The 25-year-old could finish his career as a multiple-time All-Star, especially if he goes to a situation where he is more featured in the offense.
The Cavaliers get two quality wings and one second-round pick in this deal. Finney-Smith and O’Neale could both slot into the starting lineup next to Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley to give Cleveland a strong starting five that is playoff-ready. Both wings have made deep playoff runs in their career and could give the Cavs a size, length, and experience boost that helps them get to the next level.