3 trade targets at forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers

Sam Hauser should pique Cleveland’s interest

When the Boston Celtics were shorthanded due to injury, relatively unknown bench player Sam Hauser stepped up and proved himself to be a steady 3-and-D forward.

Hauser was an undrafted prospect in 2021 and fought his way into the NBA, signing with the Celtics for the 2021-22 season in which he played only 26 games. A year later, Hauser appeared in 80 contests.

His best role is as a volume shooter, hitting 41.8 percent of 4.2 3-point attempts per game last season. Defensively, the 6-foot-8 forward holds his own, earning a 113 defensive rating per 100 possessions.

The 25-year-old forward is on a $1.9 million contract for the 2023-24 season with a $2 million player option next summer. On such a cheap contract, trading for Hauser could be a simple transaction for the Cavaliers if Boston is interested.

Sam Hauser in Cleveland would have an opportunity to grow his value in the NBA, as the team’s future at the wing and forward position is still developing. The downside is that this means Hauser will have to fight for his minutes, and everyone else on the Cavs knows they will, too.

Any of these three forwards would benefit Cleveland’s contention hopes immediately. The greater the forward depth, the better. If the Cavaliers still want to improve their bench before October’s opening night, making one of these transactions could be the best path forward.