Report: Cavs Have ‘Strong Interest’ in Acquiring Center Greg Monroe

With the Cleveland Cavaliers sporting a 6-7 record after nearly a month of the 2017-18 season and center Tristan Thompson out until next month, the team continues to look for ways to improve its overall roster. One potential option continues to be veteran center Greg Monroe.

Sam Amico of AmicoHoops.net is reporting that the Cavaliers now have a “strong interest” in Monroe:

“The Cleveland Cavaliers have a strong interest in Greg Monroe, and are exploring ways to obtain the Phoenix Suns’ newly acquired center, league sources told Amico Hoops.”

Currently in his eighth season, Monroe is 29 years old and on the last year of a three-year, $50 million contract that’s paying him $17.8 million this season. He’s averaged 14.0 points and 8.7 rebounds per game during his career, but in his five games this season, his averages are 6.8 points and 5.0 rebounds per contest.

Given Monroe’s salary, it’s highly unlikely the Cavaliers would be able to work out a trade for the 6-foot-11 center, given their own salary-cap issues. However, should he obtain a buyout from the Suns, the Cavaliers will be in a stronger position to make the acquisition.

“The Suns reportedly are looking to move Monroe, either via trade or contract buyout,” Amico added. “While he would prefer to join a contender, Monroe said he is open to remaining with the Suns.”

Even after a buyout, Amico noted that the Cavs will face competition for Monroe’s services, specifically citing two other teams that are interested: the San Antonio Spurs and Denver Nuggets.

Prior to being dealt to Phoenix, Monroe had spent the first five years of his career with the Detroit Pistons before signing with the Milwaukee Bucks after the 2014-15 season. He was dealt to the Suns last Tuesday as a part of a trade that sent dynamic point guard Eric Bledsoe to the Bucks.