Cavs News: Cleveland Cavaliers to Sign Chris ‘Birdman’ Andersen

After losing backup center Timofey Mozgov to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Cleveland Cavaliers are close to adding veteran center Chris Andersen.

The news comes from head coach Tyronn Lue, who says that the Cavs have already signed the center.

However, some sources are claiming that the news is a bit premature.

Andersen, who turned 38 on Thursday, averaged 4.6 points and 4.5 rebounds in 20 games with the Memphis Grizzlies last season. The veteran has played for the Denver Nuggets, New Orleans Hornets, Miami Heat and Grizzlies over the course of his 15-year career.

One key component that may have led to “Birdman’s” arrival in Cleveland is his relationship with superstar Finals MVP LeBron James. The two spent a couple of years together in Miami, including the Heat’s 2013 championship season.

Heat beat reporter Ira Winderman of the Sun Sentinel immediately pointed to the close relationship after the news broke out.

Although Andersen is 38, the center will likely play a solid role off the bench in the absence of Mozgov. His high energy and prior experience with James will come in handy for a Cavs team looking to defend their reign next season.