As the Cleveland Cavaliers continue to search for answers to put an end to their four-game losing streak, the rumors concerning disgruntled Phoenix Suns point guard Eric Bledsoe continue to bubble to the surface. One of the more frequent in that category involves the possibility of the Cavaliers making a deal to acquire Bledsoe at some point in the near future.
Sam Amico of Amico Hoops discussed Bledsoe’s longtime desire to play for the Cavs:
“Bledsoe wants to play for the Cavaliers. That’s not in question.
“If he has a preferred trade destination, it is Cleveland. As a free agent a couple of summers ago, he worked out at the Cavs’ practice facility.”
Other key factors that can play a positive role in making it happen, according to Amico, include the fact that Bledsoe shares the same agent, Rich Paul, with Tristan Thompson, J.R. Smith and LeBron James. Another stems from the belief that adding one more notable point guard to the Cavaliers stable would be beneficial for both this season and beyond.
The possible trade of Kyrie Irving to the Suns during the summer had included Bledsoe in the discussion, which got the point guard’s attention.
“When the Cavs talked with the Suns about Kyrie Irving this past offseason, Bledsoe had his hopes up that a deal would be reached,” Amico wrote. “When talks broke off, Bledsoe was disappointed. He hasn’t been the same since.”
However, Amico indicated that despite the interest from both sides, some potential roadblocks remain.
“Most teams can put together a better package for Bledsoe,” Amico wrote. “The Cavs might be willing to offer Iman Shumpert and Channing Frye. The Suns, of course would, want more. They might ask for Thompson and for the Cavs to take back Tyson Chandler.
“They would really love the Brooklyn pick the Cavs received in the with Boston — at which point the Cavs should hang up the phone.”
Phoenix is in the midst of a rebuilding program, with that Brooklyn selection likely to be one that will be among the top 10 selections in next June’s NBA draft. Given the uncertainty over James’ future with the Cavaliers beyond this season, that draft pick is an important commodity the team isn’t likely to hand over unless some additional talent comes along with Bledsoe.
Still, the positive vibes coming from both the Cavaliers and Bledsoe appear to be very clear.
“The bottom line on Bledsoe is the Cavs would love to have him,” Amico wrote. “They clearly miss Irving’s ability to create his own shot. Bledsoe can do that. And again, he would love to play for the Cavs.”
The NBA trading deadline is more than three months away, though if any deal for Bledsoe is made, it’s likely to take place long before that time.
