Believing that he could no longer win in Cleveland, James made the decision to leave for the Los Angeles Lakers last summer, although the Cavs still believing they could compete, re-signed All-Star Kevin Love to a new a new four-year, $120 million contract.
Despite the Cavs ambition, the team has slipped to a disastrous 11-41 record, and the team are likely to trade away a number of players before the February trade deadline. Cleveland’s roster is currently home to a number of young talents, in addition to seasoned veterans who could help a contender, so with departures imminent, here are three of the players that are likely to leave the Cavs over the next week.
#3 Alec Burks
Back in November, Alec Burks was traded, along with two future second-round picks, to the Cavs, in exchange for Kyle Korver. Since landing in Cleveland, Burks has played 32 times, averaging 11.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game, and Amico Hoops is reporting that the 27-year-old’s performances have attracted the attention of the Boston Celtics:
Burks will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer, and the Cavs look willing to accept a draft pick in return for Burk.
#2 Rodney Hood
Rodney Hood has been one of the Cavs most consistent performers since joining the team just over a year ago, and Shams Charania of The Athletic is reporting that the 26-year-old is currently attracting interest from around the league:
Hood has played 40 times for the Cavs this season, averaging 12.7 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. Just like Burks, Hood will become a free agent this summer, so the Cavs are in a position where they need to either trade Hood now or face the prospect of losing him for free during the offseason.
#1 J.R. Smith
The Cavaliers made J.R. Smith available for trade back in November after the veteran point guard publicly criticized the direction of the franchise. Despite this, Smith is still a member of the Cavs roster, as rival teams have been uninterested in taking on board Smith’s huge $14.7 million contract. Nevertheless, an update earlier this week confirmed that Smith is closing in a departure:
A buyout would make J.R. Smith a much more attractive for teams around the league, and if the veteran is available on a veterans minimum deal, there will be huge interest in a player who last season averaged 8.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.
0 votes
