4 realistic trade proposals to add size and depth to Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers could get in on the Chicago Bulls' upcoming fire sale
Since the middle of November, the Chicago Bulls have begun exploring the trade market for All-Star guard Zach Lavine. While no trade has materialized, this shift in perspective suggests the Bulls will be sellers by the trade deadline. For the Cavaliers, the Bulls present a terrific partner to trade low or expiring salaries for win-now players.
The immediate role player in mind is Alex Caruso, a 6-foot 5-inch point guard with elite perimeter defensive skills. His contract is nearly identical to Isaac Okoro, meaning the deal could theoretically be perfect. The Bulls receive a young player with potential, and the Cavs get a perfect backcourt second-unit captain.
Unfortunately for the Cavs, every other NBA team will chase Caruso to the ends of the earth. He is a perfect fit on any good or contending team, and many of them have more draft assets to sweeten a deal than Cleveland's stockpile of second-rounders. Instead, the Cavaliers could target two players that would add size.
Cavaliers/Bulls trade
Andre Drummond's first stint in Cleveland was not picture perfect. That is unavoidable; however, he would be another backup center that offers more than Damian Jones. Tristan Thompson would likely receive more minutes most nights, but Drummond would be the right choice for certain matchups. In a smaller role off the bench, Drummond is perfect for a second chance.
The real nucleus of the deal on the Cavs side is Torrey Craig, a veteran 6-foot 7-inches forward known for his valuable play on both ends of the court. In 21.4 minutes per game with the Bulls this year, Craig is averaging 5.4 points and 4.9 rebounds with a 32.7 percent 3-point shot. Last season, Craig shot 39.5 percent from deep and has been a consistent threat from that range throughout his career.
Adding these two veterans to the locker room gives the Cavaliers a number of new, dynamic lineups at their disposal. Drummond helps with the Cavs' rebounding woes and gives their big men time to rest, and Craig is a prototypical 3-and-D forward.
Headed out west, the Cavaliers could find a perfect trade with another fringe contender.