3 quality big men the Cleveland Cavaliers could acquire in free agency

Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks

A more unrealistic and long-shot move would be acquiring Brook Lopez, who fits perfectly in a starting lineup alongside Evan Mobley in every way. Throughout his career, Lopez has evolved into a 35% three-point shooter, consistently taking over four attempts per game for seven straight seasons. With Bryant and Wagner, defenses have to respect their jump shots, but with Lopez, defenses have to plan for it.

Defensively, Lopez has been named to the All-Defensive First Team and is an elite rim protector. His ability to roam and play the role of free safety, combined with Mobley’s disruptive length on the perimeter, would help maintain the team’s defensive identity, if not improve it.

The major obstacle to making this ideal fit reality is the fact that it would likely require moving on from Jarrett Allen’s contract. Lopez is 35 years old, and essentially swapping him for the 25-year-old Allen would significantly narrow the championship window. While Lopez would be a perfect fit as the center in the lineup, it is unlikely to happen unless a favorable trade involving Allen becomes available.

Adding a quality and versatile big man should be near the top of the Cavs’ to-do list, just behind addressing the need for wing depth. While most of the more affordable options may not be expected to play 30 minutes per night, their diverse skill sets allow the team to avoid matchup disadvantages during the playoffs.