2. Nerlens Noel
The former sixth overall draft pick has gone from being considered a future star to struggling to earn playing time with the 2-13 Dallas Mavericks. Nerlens Noel was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Mavericks last season and while he cannot be traded from the Mavs until Dec. 14, the Cavs could certainly be interested in the three-year pro when he becomes available.
Noel could step in right away as a starter while Thompson recovers and later as an athletic option coming off the bench behind Thompson. The defensive-minded big man has averaged 9.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game in his young career, and he has all the physical talents to contribute in a big way.
According to recent reports, Mavs head coach Rick Carlisle may be growing tired of Noel. When the Cavs and Mavericks faced off on Nov. 11, Carlisle made the decision to bench Noel for the entirety of the game. Following the game, the veteran coach gave his reasoning:
“Minutes are earned, that’s all I can tell you,” he said.
The Mavs may be ready to part ways with Noel, giving the Cavs a real opportunity to trade for the University of Kentucky product. Noel would undoubtedly help the Cavs near the basket offensively, but he would be most valuable on the defensive side. Whether Kevin Love is positioned at power forward or center, Noel is quick enough and has the awareness to play support defense when Love gets beat off the dribble. While he wouldn’t erase all of the Cavs’ defensive woes, he would certainly help plug many of the leaks that have plagued the Cavaliers so far this season.
Next: Jahlil Okafor
