Report: Cavs Interested in Signing Rodney Hood to Lucrative 3-Year Contract

Just because superstar LeBron James left doesn’t mean the Cleveland Cavaliers are starting from scratch.

Outside of James’ departure, the team has had a pretty successful summer. The Cavs drafted promising young guard Collin Sexton, acquired a proven veteran in Channing Frye and extended All-Star Kevin Love for a few more years. Yet, one big objective remains unaccomplished: re-signing restricted free agent Rodney Hood.

However, while a deal hasn’t taken place, Terry Pluto of Cleveland.com is reporting that the Cavs are interested in offering a multi-year contract to the guard:

“The Cavs have extended Rodney Hood a $3.4 million qualifying offer for 2018-19. I’m told they are interested in signing the restricted free agent to a 3-year contract. My guess is it will be relatively modest, especially compared to what he hoped to receive when he came to the Cavs in February in a trade with Utah.”

Hood, who came to the Cavs from the Utah Jazz in a midseason trade, averaged just 10.8 points in 21 Cleveland games. However, the 6-foot-8 guard averaged a career-high 16.2 points on 42 percent shooting in 39 games with the Jazz before getting dealt. While Hood’s statistics were down with the Cavs, there is optimism he can reignite that offensive spark with James no longer commanding the ball.

At 25, Hood is entering the prime of his career. It’s already difficult for Cleveland to attract good free agents, so the opportunity to lock up the four-year pro is vital. However, other teams know the shooter’s potential and have expressed interest in luring him away. One of those teams, the Sacramento Kings, is interested in acquiring Hood and still has the cap space to make a big offer.

The Cavs’ main priority over the next few days needs to be locking up the former Duke University star. With a promising young core, serviceable veterans and Love at the helm, the Cavs are definitely in the running to make the playoffs again next season.