Cleveland Cavaliers: Three Possible Trade Scenarios in the Near Future

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About a week after Cleveland Cavaliers General Manager David Griffin told the media, “nobody is untouchable” the team is knee-deep in trade rumors revolving around Minnesota Timberwolves guard Corey Brewer. Various media sources have also reported that Griffin has been looking for a big man as well with Timofey Mozgov of the Denver Nuggets being the ultimate prize. Another source suggests that another one of LeBron James’ former Miami Heat teammates could join him up north soon. Point guard Norris Cole could be a potential trade acquisition should a team like the Houston Rockets snatch up Brewer. With that being said, here are three potential trade scenarios the Cavs could explore in the near future.

Dion Waiters and Lou Amundson to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Corey Brewer.

The T-Wolves are weak at the power forward spot, so the trade would give Amundson an abundane of minutes on a team that he could use the big body. The case is similar with Waiters. It’s pretty obvious to most of us that the only time Dion has the potential to make an impact on offense is when he has the ball in his hands. That is only going to happen so many times with Kyrie Irving and James averaging 21.1 points per game and 24.9 points per game respectively. The Cavs would acquire a two-guard capable of getting those guys their shots when we need them most. Dion would also be a solid pickup for the T-Wolves who would wind up pairing with one of the best young swingmen in the game in Andrew Wiggins.

Tristan Thompson to the Denver Nuggets for Timofey Mozgof.

The Cavs have been trying their best to transform Thompson into a tenacious big man who poses a serious threat down low. They’ve been at it for a while now, but the Cavs should consider calling it quits on the waiting game and get an actual center immediately. After opting to test the free agency waters, Tristan has made it evident that he’s aiming for the big bucks this summer. Currently, the 250-pound seven-footer in Mozgof is getting paid slightly less than Tristan. Mozgof averages 9.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per night with the Nuggets. Thompson does have the potential to become a perennial all-star at the power forward position a few years down the road. Unfortunately that doesn’t fit in with the “win now” philosophy held by the Cavs organization.

Lou Amundson and Joe Harris to the Miami Heat for Norris Cole.

Should moves for Brewer and Mozgov both fall apart, this would be a low-risk/high-reward move for both parties involved. The numbers work out perfectly, and Miami would have a sharpshooter on their hands similar to former Heat shooting guard Mike Miller. Alex Kirk will likely be recalled soon, which would mean that the team wouldn’t miss Amundson very much. Moreover, once Matthew Dellavedova returns, much of Harris’ playing time will get cut. Why not send him to a team where he can contribute in exchange for a quick point guard who prides himself on defense and facilitating teammates. This seems like its just what the doctor ordered. Not to mention, Norris could hand pointers down to Kyrie about playing and sharing the court with LeBron.

Keep in mind, these are prospective trade ideas based on the team’s play thus far. If the Cavs can turn it around, you may see the front office stand pat through the all-star break until the deadline. But on the other hand, if the chemistry isn’t there by then you could argue that a trade is just what this team needs.

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Jordan Smith is currently an enrolled student in Cleveland State University's Journalism & Promotional Communications program. He also currently writes for the University newspaper, The Cleveland Stater and as a native Clevelander and lifelong Cavs fan, Jordan is proud to be a junior staff writer for Cavaliers Nation. You can follow him @mr_doubleo.