3 underrated free agents Cleveland Cavaliers can still sign

Kelly Oubre Jr., Charlotte Hornets. Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images
Kelly Oubre Jr., Charlotte Hornets. Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images /
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Cleveland Cavaliers
T.J. Warren, Phoenix Suns. Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images /

Available free agent No. 1: T.J. Warren

An ideal free agent adds a bit of size to the Cavs’ forward rotation. Currently, Cleveland’s small forward depth is Strus, Isaac Okoro, and sometimes LeVert. Strus and Okoro are both under 6-foot-6, meaning another forward would be the best fit as a taller player to help guard big forwards.

In his eight seasons, T.J. Warren has been a valuable presence for every roster he’s joined. Warren’s career 14.6 points per game average is matched with solid defensive ability. Last season on the Brooklyn Nets and later Phoenix Suns, Warren shot 32.8 percent from behind the arc. He might not be a deadeye shooter, but defenses have to respect him when he’s on the court.

Warren brings more veteran leadership and worthwhile minutes on the court to the Cavaliers. T.J. Warren is 6-foot-8, which would make him the tallest small forward on Cleveland’s roster. Signing Warren gives the Cavs more lineup variability against tall teams.

After a good season with the Nets and Suns, Warren has yet to sign a contract for next season. He has had some time-consuming injuries in the past, leaving his future in question. Any team signing Warren would have to be prepared to replace him if he gets hurt again.

In Cleveland, signing Warren would place the veteran forward in a role that does not command heavy minutes to lead to another injury. Losing Warren to injury does not harm Cleveland’s overall rotation. Instead, any game Warren can play is only another plus for the Cavaliers’ chances.