4 free agents the Cavaliers missed out on in 2023 offseason

Minnesota Timberwolves backup big man Naz Reid received plenty of attention in the 2022-23 regular season, and the league’s interest in Reid only grew as free agency approached. Reid was set for a hefty contract after breaking out as a fantastic 3-point shooting center with solid interior defense.

The Cavaliers reportedly offered Reid a four-year $63 million deal, similar to Strus’ deal, but he chose instead to remain with the T-Wolves on a three-year, $42 million contract.

It was an unfortunate miss, as the Cavs could have seriously benefited from Reid on both ends of the court in the short-term and long-term futures. As a backup behind Jarrett Allen, Reid undeniably gives the Cavs a solid bench roster with versatility and few flaws. If the Cavaliers eventually parted ways with Allen, Reid has all the capabilities to be a good starting center in the NBA.

Niang will hopefully be able to fulfill a similar role in Cleveland, though he is more likely to spend nearly all of his minutes at the four spot rather than the five. Additionally, Niang’s rebounding is far below the ranks of Reid or Allen.

A dependable stretch five is hard to find in the Association, so an opportunity like Reid might not present itself anytime soon.

The Cavaliers were seemingly looking at every forward with a good long-range shot, as this next free agent was a late entry into their sights that they missed.