Way too early 2024 trade deadline candidates for the Cavaliers

Trade candidate No. 2: Gary Trent Jr.

It seems likely that the Toronto Raptors are planning to trot out a jumbo lineup with Scottie Barnes starting alongside Dennis Schroder in the backcourt, forcing Gary Trent Jr. to the bench as he was for parts of last season. It is the latest indication that the Raptors don’t value Trent as a long-term player for them.

Assuming they don’t want to lose him for nothing when he walks next summer (probably not wise to make that assumption; Toronto does seem to like letting players walk) they could move the 24-year-old wing by the Trade Deadline. Trent is a good defender, a 38.4 percent career 3-point shooter and could be a replacement for Isaac Okoro. If the Raptors are willing to move him at a discount expiring contract (a big if) the Cavs could buy low and add him at the Trade Deadline.

Trade candidate No. 3: Delon Wright

If the Cavaliers are looking for a Ricky Rubio replacement instead, a player like Delon Wright could be a better fit. He is an extremely long guard defender with solid passing, handling and cutting skills. Add in his elite defensive impact and Wright is a logical addition for a team lacking size in the backcourt.

The Washington Wizards are entering an all-out rebuild and have a fully stocked cupboard of guards, which will likely make Delon Wright a trade candidate by the deadline, if not immediately. He also won’t cost as much as an Alex Caruso or Gary Trent Jr., making him a reasonable target to further bolster the backcourt.