3 Cavaliers trade targets who will become eligible on Dec 15
The Cleveland Cavaliers aren't going to be a complacent team any more. They've passed by the young, up-and-comer who patiently lets their group of players gel together and slowly evaluates which players will be a part of their long-term plans. The clock has been accelerated and the Cavs need to win now.
At times this season, the Cavs have seen the vision of the team that they've put together, with shooting and dribble penetration on offense and elite interior defense shutting down opponents. All too often, however, injuries, turnovers and cold shooting have reared their head for disappointing results.
The Cavaliers are likely to look for upgrades on the trade market, be they big swings or tinkering on the edges of the roster. While trades are possible during the first two months of the season, the unofficial kickoff to trade season is December 15th; that's when players newly-signed in free agency this summer become eligible to be traded.
Which players around the league coming available on December 15th could be options for the Cavaliers? Let's look at three players the team could target from that group of 2023 free agents.
Target No. 3: Aaron Holiday
The Cleveland Cavaliers have both a lot of ball-handlers and have had their depth at point guard tested this season. Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert are capable playmakers but neither is a true point guard, seamlessly maximizing their own shot opportunities as well as setting up teammates. Ty Jerome has played just two games due to injury and Ricky Rubio has been away fromt he team all season.
If the Cavs decide to shore up the position, Aaron Holiday is an interesting option. The Houston Rockets added him this summer to provide veteran help to their point guard room, but it's not out of the question that they look to turn the keys more fully over to rookie Amen Thompson as the backup to Fred VanVleet. If so, getting a nominal asset for Holiday may be worth it to them, or he could be included in a larger deal as the Rockets look to make a bigger swing.
Either way, he would be a steady option to build out Cleveland's depth at the position.