The Army of Antawn

Well folks, after months of speculation the Cavs finally made a deal today. The Cavs acquired F Antwan Jamison and PG Sebastian Telfair for Z and a first round pick. To clear this issue quickly, Z's agent Herb Rudoy told the Cleveland Plain Dealer "I'm going to try and get them to do a buyout. I think his heart is in Cleveland, that's for sure. But we'll see how this plays out". The Cavs can sign Z for the bi-annual exception of $1.9 million (which is more than most teams can offer) after he gets bought out. Z's 2 adopted sons and wife live in Cleveland, and he spent his entire career here. The Wizards really have no reason to keep Z as they are in last place, plus they have youngsters JaVale McGee and Andray Blache to play. Also by buying Z out, the Wizards would get under the luxury tax. Getting under the luxury tax has been the main objective for the Wizards. Through the dealings of Caron Butler and Jamison, the Wizards cleared about $22 million off their cap for this summer.

Secondly, I would like to address the Amare issue. The Cavs had been in serious negotiations with the Suns about acquiring Amare. The Cavs were offering Z, Hickson, 2010 first rounder, and Danny Green. The Suns were talking to the Miami Heat, and the Heat were offering Mario Chalmers, Q-Richardson, Daequan Cook, and Dorell Wright along with a first round draft pick. The Suns wanted to either get Michael Beasley in the deal from the Heat, or get the Heat to find a 3rd team to take on Jason Richardson (he is owed $14 million next year). The Cavs on the other hand set a deadline with the Suns and they wanted to have an answer by today. The Cavs did not want another team to outbid them. Also as some of you remember, the Cavs were in serious negotiations for Shaq last year with the Suns but a couple hours before the deadline ended, the Suns pulled out of the deal. The Cavs did not want this to happen again so they were insistent on getting an answer. Apparently, the Suns had been stalling for a day or two, so Dan Gilbert got involved today. Both Gilbert and Cavs GM Danny Ferry approached the Suns and wanted an answer on our offer. Either we were not given an answer, or we were told "no". After this, the Cavs stuck to their word, and had a deal on the back-burner with the Wizards which they then completed. The Suns lost any leverage they had with the Heat, because now the Heat know they no longer have to compete with our offer. The Heat can keep their offer, or the Suns can just keep Amare for the rest of the year. If the Suns keep Amare for the rest of the year they risk losing him to another team in free agency (he is leaving the Suns, but the Suns can sign and trade him because they have his bird rights). The indecisiveness of the Suns really hurt them in the end, it seems that they did not know what they were doing. The Cavs did not want to have the rug pulled from under them at the last second by Phoenix, and that is why they ended up with Jamison.

On to the actual trade itself. I think this is a first degree felony. We traded our first round pick for Antawn Jamison. I'll say it again, first round pick for Antawn Jamison. Again, first round pick for Antawn Jamison. There is a great chance Z comes back as well. Jamison gives us the "stretch 4" the team needs. He can shoot the midrange jumper, rebound, and score inside. He is a great character and locker room guy. This will allow the Cavs to continue to develop Hickson, while adding another scorer to the Cavs. Danny Ferry was able to leverage the checkbook of Dan Gilbert on weaker teams. Ferry traded Damon Jones for Mo Williams, Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic for Shaq, and now a 1st round pick for Antawn Jamison. He took advantage of the fact that all of these teams needed to cut payroll and were bleeding money. Ferry positioned himself by using expiring contracts and draft picks to get these players. We should also be extremely thankful we have an owner like Dan Gilbert. He is willing to take on the final $28 million of Jamison' deal and pay the tax on that. If you look across the street to the Cleveland Indians and you will see an owner who is penny pinching. The Indians are constantly trading their good talent for younger prospects because they cannot afford to keep them. Gilbert has shown he will spend money to get great players. He is a man of his word who says he will do anything to win. We should really appreciate Dan Gilbert and all he has done for this organization.

The Cavs have put themselves in a great position to win the NBA Championship this year and next year. Probably the best part of this deal is the fact that we kept both JJ Hickson and Danny Green. We did not mortgage our future at all because we kept both of these guys. To me, the Cavs need to continue to add young players so they have something to build off of. I am not someone who likes throwing draft picks in deals and I am not opposed to using one in this deal, but the Cavs need to continue to surround LeBron with guys like Hickson and Green. Adding young talent around LeBron would only further convince him to stay. I wouldn't be surprised if the Cavs tried to trade for a draft pick tomorrow.

Back to the Amare situation, I would have loved to have Amare in the long term. He is 27, and is in the prime of his career. He would be a great running mate for LeBron for years to come. He throws down a lot of great dunks and can finish at the basket. To me though, Amare has a lot of potential negatives. One, when I see Amare carry himself on and off the court, he seems very cocky. Brian Windhorst made a good point that one time Amare was being interviewed this year and he took offense that no one asked him about 2010 free agency. He seems to be a guy who is concerned about himself. Secondly, he is someone who wants a max contract this summer. This is why he is leaving Phoenix, because they do not want to pay him $19 million a year. If he was traded to the Cavs, he would be getting 10-12 shots a game and not his usual 15 shots a game (he is averaging about 15 a game this year). He would be forced to take a role here in Cleveland and would he be willing to accept that role? In Phoenix he is the #1 scorer on the team. Amare would want to get as many touches as possible so he could justify a max contract. Third, he has had a history of injuries as he hurt his eye last year (was out for half the year), and has had microfracture knee surgery. A lot of Amare's game is based off of his athleticism, leaping ability and his ability to finish at the basket. How much longer can his knees hold up after microfracture knee surgery? Fourth, how would Shaq and Amare fit? The Suns did not do better until they fired Terry Porter (played half court sets), and hired Alvin Gentry (fast paced style). The Cavs play a half court offense and I have concerns about how he would fit. Fifth, there is no guarantee he would stay here after this year. The Cavs would have had to trade Hickson/Green/1st pick with no guarantee of Amare staying. You mortgage all of your future assets for Amare. Also, you can't guarantee that the Cavs would be committed to giving Amare a max extension. We all believe that since we have Dan Gilbert as our owner that he will just sign anyone to a max extension. What if Amare does not fit? What if he has injury issues? What if he is a locker room cancer? If Amare doesn't fit in with the Shaq this year and the Cavs don't win the title, would that motivate Amare to leave? Teams such as the Knicks, Bulls, and Heat will have a lot of cap space and you can bet they will all offer max contracts to Amare. Who knows if Amare would prefer to go to a larger market. Sources say he wants to go to Miami since his mother lives there and that he owns a house in the Miami area. There is too much risk and uncertainty involved with Amare, but the reward would have been great. Again, if Amare was committed to staying in Cleveland I would love to have him long term, but having him stay here long term coupled with past injury issues makes Amare a huge risk.

The Cavs again came away with a solid impact player for almost nothing. I hope the Cavs continue to build the organization around young assets and flexible contracts. Jamison's deal only goes another 2 years, so he can impact the team next year, and the year after he becomes an expiring. The Cavs did not hamstring themselves long term by acquiring Jamison and they continue to show LeBron they will do anything to improve the team. I think this increases the chances that LeBron stays because he has seen the commitment that the Cavs have placed to winning for the team. The team kept their young assets in Hickson and Green, Sasha Kaun overseas and an unknown in Christian Eyenga who is probably going to come over next year. The Cavs should try their best to get themselves a draft pick of two before the end of the deadline to keep themselves in a position to add young players to the roster.

That just about does it folks. Overall, I think Ferry did a great job on this trade as he kept all his options open, leveraged the checkbook of Dan Gilbert, and stuck to his guns in his offers. He did not want to be in a bad position at the end of the deadline where he would have ended up with nothing. Once again, the Cavs are showing LeBron that they are committed to putting a championship caliber team together. With Mo Williams coming back soon the Cavs will be getting fully healthy. Did I mention a guy named Leon Powe will be returning as well? I just hope in June we will be celebrating down the streets of downtown Cleveland.

Thanks for reading and go Cleveland!

-Raz

One Week Left

Well folks, there is about one week til the trade deadline and there is a lot to cover. To start, I am of the belief that the Cavs are working extremely hard to get a deal done. Brian Windhorst of the Plain Dealer reported last week that Cavs GM Danny Ferry has been "in a bunker" on the phones trying to work a deal since last week. He has not traveled with the team and he is in the team offices trying to get a deal done. I outlined a few weeks ago why I think the Cavs would make a deal (Dan Gilbert, Z's expiring deal as the last asset before 2010 FA, Buyer's market). Windhorst also reported that Z would be willing to take a buyout from the team, but the team has to be cautious because of the way he reacted by the benching of Z earlier in the season. He commented that the Cavs would like to make a trade sooner rather than later, so they can integrate all the necessary parts quicker. Also, he made note that the Cavs have about 3 deals on the table right now, but these deals all include JJ Hickson, and the Cavs do not want to put him in these deals. I have stated my opinion before, and unless your trading for Bosh or Amare, you don't put Hickson in a deal. During this time of the year we are going to hear a ton of names out there, and I will make a brief list of who I think the Cavs could end up with by next week.

Antawn Jamison- I have written about Jamison numerous times. Jamison's agent has told the Wizards that he wants out, and the new owner of the Wizards plans on rebuilding the entire team. The recent talk on him is that the Wizards are very reluctant to do a deal with us for Jamison, and that the Cavs do not trust the Wizards to buyout Z. With that said, the Cavs are trying to get a 3rd team involved in this deal and Windhorst mentioned the Houston Rockets. An insider on the RealCavsFans forum (he works for the Cavs, he informed the board of the Ben Wallace, Shaq, and Mo Williams trades hours before they happened) stated that the Cavs/Wizards/Rockets have an offer on the table that has Z going to Houston, Jamison to Cleveland, Caron Butler to Houston, and Tracy McGrady to the Wizards. The Cavs hope is that Houston will buyout Z. Butler would give Houston the wing scorer they need, and the Wizards would get about $22 million off their books for next year via McGrady's expiring deal. The insider mentioned that fillers would have to be added, and I am guessing a draft pick or Danny Green could be thrown into the mix to sweeten everything up. He said the deal is being "consummated" by all the teams, and that this could be the deal that goes down. Also, the chatter in the locker room is that Z does expect a trade for Jamison to go down sometime by next week.

As you can see, Jamison is the Cavs #1 target. He fits exactly what we need, and if we don't have to give up JJ Hickson for him, the Cavs have to do it. I don't mind us giving up a future 2nd rounder or Danny Green to get the deal done either. Z getting bought out could be tricky, but the Cavs trust Houston GM Daryl Morey much more than they do Wizards GM Ernie Grunfeld. If this deal breaks down, other 3rd teams include the Milwaukee Bucks (they have made the expiring contracts of Luke Ridnour, Hakim Warrick, and Joe Alexander available ) and NY Knicks (Al Harrington's $10 million expiring deal and Larry Hughes' $12 million expiring deal) could be used. Windhorst noted that the Cavs will not directly help the Knicks, but that Harrington or Hughes could go to the Wizards to help with cap relief. Trust me, Larry Hughes will not wear a Cavs uniform again. The Cavs will also use the negotiations with Troy Murphy as leverage against the Wizards because it has become apparent that the Pacers and Cavs have come closer to a deal. I have a feeling Ferry will try to trade Z and maybe a pick or Danny Green for Murphy, and if he gets a deal agreed upon, he will go to the Wizards one last time offering the same package to see if they will budge. One thing Cavs fans have to realize is that Danny Ferry will not overpay for a player and that he wants to win in trades. He turned Damon Jones into Mo Williams, Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic into Shaq, and Larry Hughes into Delonte West. He is going to offer financial relief to teams, and his logic is that the Cavs should be the team getting a draft pick in return for saving a team large amounts of money. 2 years ago Kurt Thomas got traded from the Suns along with 2 first round draft picks to the Seattle Suppersonics for a future 2nd rounder. The Suns paid 2 first round picks for the SuperSonics to give them cap relief. I just can't imagine any other team who will be willing to take on another 2 years of Jamison' deal. Ferry will not budge come deadline and he will wait for a team to give into his demands. I think landing Jamison is about 50/50 right now.

Troy Murphy- Much like Jamison, I have written about Murphy in the past. His impact might not be as great as Jamison' but his contract becomes an asset next year as he becomes an expiring contract. The Pacers have lowered their demands for Murphy, but they are still asking for JJ Hickson. I assume Ferry will just offer Z and a filler for Murphy. The problem here is that Pacers C Jeff Foster is out for the year and Tyler Hansbrough has been out for the last month. The Pacers need bodies in their frontcourt and they are looking for a PF in return that could play. I don't think there would be any problems of Z getting bought out by the Pacers if he was traded either. Also, I think Murphy will be the #2 option if we do not land Jamison. I think there is a solid chance we could land Murphy.

Andre Iguodala- I don't believe I have written about Iggy before. His name is being made available by the Sixers due to their desire to cut payroll. Teams wanting Iggy would have to take on the last 2 years of Samuel Dalembert's contract as well ($12 million). Elton Brand's horrible contract has been mentioned, but I wouldn't go near it as there are 4 years left on his deal. I am not sure if Iggy would fit here as a SG because he isn't a great shooter (47% FG 37% from 3), but he is a great perimeter defender. We saw what happend the last time we had a SG who couldn't shoot play on the Cavs. At the same time, Iggy has been asked to be the #1 guy on his team but his skill level seems to be that of a #2 guy, which the Cavs have needed. Also, his contract goes for another 4 years at about $15 million a year. I don't mind taking on Dalembert because his deal becomes an expiring one next year. I am just very reluctant to add JJ Hickson to this deal because I feel we are saving the Sixers a lot of cap space in the future. I'm not sure if Iggy is the perfect fit in Cleveland either. Taking on a big deal like that could hamstring us in the future as well. We would be stuck with Iggy as our 2nd fiddle, and if it doesn't work, it would be very hard to move his deal. Talks seemed to be heated last week, but since then the fire has seemed to died down. I don't think Iggy will be wearing a Cavs uniform by next week.

Kevin Martin- I mentioned his name earlier and how Martin could fit in here. I believe there is a chance he could be dealt. Since Martin's return to the starting lineup the Kings are 3-12. It is obvious that rookie Tyreke Evans and Martin cannot exist in the same backcourt as they both need the ball to be effective, and that neither is a true PG. The Kings were doing better when they had PG Beno Udrih running the team, and Evans playing SG. Due to the fact that they have two players who are very similar, the Kings could look to unload Martin and Andres Nocioni as well (2 more years left on the deal). The Cavs would have to give up Z (buyout), Hickson, and sign and trade Wally Z too. I would consider it, but I am not sure if I would go through with it. I don't see Martin getting traded here though. The Kings probably won't be making Martin available though.

Amare Stoudemire- I wrote my last blog about him, and since then it seems like the talks have died. The Cavs are scared of the me-first personality of Amare, lack of defense, lack of commitment, lack of cohesion with Shaq, and a history of injuries (eye/knee). With that said, the Miami Heat look like a possible suitor for Amare because of the Heat's willingness to move Michael Beasley. You're going to hear his name a lot in the next week, I just don't think the Cavs will be in the mix. Amare won't be wearing a Cavs uniform anytime soon.

As you can see, the names have not changed that much in the past couple of months. The Cavs are driving hard for Jamison, and are using Murphy as their backup option. Hickson is playing better as of late (in his last ten games he is averaging 10 points and 6 rebounds in 21 minutes per game). I am glad Ferry is not going to include Hickson in any of these deals. The Wizards have to be criminally insane to hold onto Jamison, pay him the remaining 3 years on his deal at the age of 33, while trying to rebuild. They have young players such as Nick Young, Andray Blache, and JaVale McGee waiting in the wings. The uncertainty of the Gilbert Arenas situation also plays into this because they might not be able to void his contract. Jamison has made it known he know longer wants to be in Washington. Again, I can't think of a team that would give into the demands of the Wizards, and absorb the deal of Jamison at the same time. You can say the Dallas Mavericks could absorb the contract, but Mark Cuban has stated that he will not trade promising PG Rodrigue Beabouis in any deal (he learned his lesson in the Jason Kidd deal after trading 2 first rounders and Devin Harris for him). Also, the Mavs really don't have a need for a shooting bigman as they already have the best one in the league in Dirk Nowitzki. It's not good business to purposely not deal with a team, especially when they can satisfy your needs. If the Wizards want to spite the Cavs because of the so called "rivlary" go ahead, the Wizards will end up hurting themselves the most. The Wizards are better off playing their youngsters and evaluating the talent they have now, rather than trying to play Jamison for the next couple of years. They should know that even without a trade the Cavs can win the NBA Championship this year.

Next week should be one of the most fun/pivotal weeks of the year for the Cavs. Danny Ferry has to do a great job of balancing this years aspirations of a championship (Z buyout/Jamison/Murphy), while looking at the future of the team (Hickson/Green/Draft picks). Ferry does not want to hamstring the Cavs financially in the long term and he does not want to strip the team of its young assets. In the four years Ferry has been here, he has only had draft picks in 2 of the drafts. Unlike last year, I won't be upset if we don't make a deal this year because I do believe we are one of the 3 best teams in the NBA right now. Thanks for reading, and go Cleveland!

-Raz

Black Jesus

Brian Windhorst of the Cleveland Plain Dealer wrote a great beat blog piece last night regarding the Cavs and Amare. Here is the whole article:

Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns talking Amare Stoudemire trade, according to report: Windhorst Beat Blog

The Arizona Republic reported late Sunday night that the Cavaliers are one of three teams to be in talks recently with the Suns about trading for star Amare Stoudemire.

The reporter on this story is the Republic's Paul Coro, which why there is a blog going up on this topic now and it is not being regarded as common fodder. Coro has a good reputation for being credible. For example, was the first to report the Cavs and Suns had re-started trade talks for Shaquille O'Neal last June.

I had not heard the Cavs have discussed trading for Stoudemire, but league sources have said the Suns are quite worried that Stoudemire plans to leave via free agency next summer and have been looking for a commitment from him now. If they can't get it, a source told me last week, they will press ahead looking to make a deal before next month's deadline.

The Suns have already made several salary-dumping trades over the last year, the biggest was sending O'Neal to the Cavs for Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic, which saved the team more than $10 million when both players were bought out (figuring in luxury tax savings).

It would be surprising that the Suns would want to do another salary dump trade with a star, but it isn't impossible. This move potentially could save team owner Robert Sarver another $10 million, and perhaps more.

The natural trade that makes sense here would be Zydrunas Ilgauskas and J.J. Hickson for Stoudemire. The Suns could also ask for draft picks, as the Cavs own their full slate of first-round picks in the future. The Cavs and Suns talked about Hickson in the O'Neal deal, but the Cavs wanted to keep him. So the Suns have a history of interest in Hickson. They also considered drafting him in 2008 but took Robin Lopez instead.

Straight up, this type of deal would save the Suns around $3.4 million off their payroll ($6.8 million including luxury tax). However, the Suns currently are a little more than $5 million over the luxury-tax line. It is possible they could then negotiate a buyout with Ilgauskas and get below the tax, which would probably enable such a trade to save them around $10 million in real money. The cash advantage could actually increase because, if the Suns got below the tax line of $69.9 million, they would be able to get their share from the fund created by the tax-paying teams. In other words, it would be worth millions more.

In addition, because of a clause in his contract, Ilgauskas has already been paid about 75 percent of his $11.5 million salary this season. He would be owed a trade kicker of around $2 million, but the Suns could save up to $3 million in the swap from money already paid to Ilgauskas that wouldn't have to come out of their coffers. All of that is subject to negotiation, of course, but the point here is this is a potential deal worth lots of money to Phoenix if they worked all these details out. But, in short, it is complicated.

Coro reports that the Golden State Warriors and the Minnesota Timberwolves have also talked to the Suns. The Suns and Warriors nearly pulled a deal for Stoudemire last June before the draft but it fell apart. There is little doubt that both the Wolves and Warriors could put together more talent-rich offers for Stoudemire. The Cavs cannot and will not offer the same package of young players.

But with Stoudemire having the right to become a free agent this summer, it would be foolish for either team to trade for him without an agreement he'd re-sign with them. He already made it clear he didn't want to go to Golden State last summer, which was one of the sticking points to that failed trade. It is hard to believe he'd want to stay in Minnesota, which is in the middle of a large rebuilding project.

That factor reduces Stoudemire's value on the trade market and is why such a deal would make some sense for the Cavs. Stoudemire has said he wants to play for a contender, but probably would also be attracted to New York or Miami in the offseason. So the danger is the Cavs may find themselves renting him as well.

Another issue in thinking about this potential trade, however, is Stoudemire's relationship with O'Neal. The people in Phoenix say that O'Neal and Stoudemire got along just fine in the locker room, but they didn't so much on the floor. Their styles got in each other's way, and it was one of the reasons the Suns first thought about trading Stoudemire a year ago and then flirted with the idea again in the summer before trading O'Neal instead.

Stoudemire is a pick-and-roll specialist who loves going to the rim. O'Neal was often in his way. It is questionable whether pairing them together again would work on the floor or be acceptable to either player. There would have to be agreement on all sides, and that doesn't count Ilgauskas, who would have to agree to a buyout to make the trade even come together.

Of course, LeBron James is in the picture as a playmaker, but O'Neal and Stoudemire had Steve Nash, one of the greatest playmakers of this era, to help in Phoenix. So all of this could be simple posturing and due diligence from the Cavs. They'd have to be convinced the two could work together and that they would have a good chance of re-signing Stoudemire to go forward with it.

If nothing else, this rumor should create a lot of chatter, which is why fans like this time of year. If I didn't think there was some basis for it or that it wasn't possible, this blog would not have been written.

Now why would the Cavs want to deal for Amare? I have 2 theories. One, the Cavs think that they can get Amare at the price of Z (buyout), JJ, and picks. By adding Amare, the Cavs will have one of the best frontcourt players in the NBA. Amare is only 27 years old, and he would be a great 2nd fiddle to LeBron. He is a strong finisher at the basket, can run the pick and roll, and has a good mid range jumper. The Cavs do not have the cap space to sign a max free agent in 2010, but if they have the opportunity to add a max player via trade then they will. Getting a talent like Amare at that price would be a steal. The other teams that are interested include the 76'ers, Nets, Bulls, and Heat. The Heat are a team that could definitely trade for Amare because they could trade the expiring deal of Quentin Richardson, and they could dangle Michael Beasley in a trade. The Bulls could offer the expiring deals of Tim Thomas or Brad Miller, along with Tyrus Thomas. The 76'ers don't have any expiring contracts, but they do have Jrue Holiday and Andre Iguodala to offer. The Nets could offer the expiring deal of Tony Battie, along with Devin Harris or Courtney Lee in a deal. As you can see the Cavs do have some competition in terms of trading for Amare.

Second, this could be a smokescreen by the Cavs to get the Wizards and Pacers to lower their demands for Jamison and Murphy. I think this is a more plausible theory to believe because I don't believe the Cavs have the assets to pull a deal for Amare. The Cavs could be sending a message to the Wizards and Pacers that they are talking with other teams, and that they can get a star player like Amare by giving up a little more.

Some of the risks I see with Amare are that he is known as someone who could be difficult to deal with, and that his attitude might not be the greatest. I have heard from a couple sources that Amare and Shawn Marion caused a few problems in the Suns locker room as they were unhappy with the amount of shots they were getting. Another risk is that Amare' defense is just bad. Yes, he plays for the Phoenix Suns, where defense is optional, but he has never impressed me as a defender. I remember watching the Cavs play the Suns once last year, and Anderson Varajao drove to the basket and just dunked in front of Amare. He made no attempt to even defend Anderson. Also, the idea of having Shaq and Amare down low would clog the lane as Amare is great at the pick and roll, while Shaq is a tree down low.

The final thing I will say about this is that the Cavs must get some sort of assurance or indication that Amare is going to stay in Cleveland. The Cavs would own his Bird Rights which would allow them to sign him to a max deal after this year. It makes no sense for the Cavs to just rent Amare for 4 months. This would greatly increase our chances of keeping LeBron. I don't see Amare giving an indication that he will stay unless LeBron does the same. Do I want Amare? Yes, he would be a great low post threat who has a lot of good years left in him. Will it happen? Probably not, but the fact that Windhorst is writing so in-depth about it gives me some sort of hope that the Cavs are looking to add a big name player by the trade deadline. Read the last two paragraphs of the article. They are trying everything to keep LeBron, and utilize the last key asset the team has (Z's expiring deal). Keep this in mind too, Suns GM Steve Kerr is very good friends with Cavs GM Danny Ferry. Kerr traded Shaq to the Cavs for nothing. Celtics GM Danny Ainge got Kevin Garnett from then Timbervolves GM Kevin McHale (Ainge and McHale were teammates for the Celtics in the 80's). Jerry West was the GM of the Grizzlies when they traded Pau Gasol to the LA Lakers (West played for the Lakers). I'd be surprised if a deal for Amare happend, but you never say never....

Thanks for reading. Go Cleveland!

-Raz

One Month Left

Well folks, we are just one month away from the NBA trading deadline. I have gone in depth with a few names that the Cavs could go after. There have not been too many new developments on the trade front. Brian Windhorst of the Plain Dealer reported last night that no trade appears imminent but that the Cavs continue to have conversations about different players. Windhorst reported that the Pacers made an offer in which we would acquire PF Troy Murphy, but he said it was a laughable offer. He mentioned that they wanted multiple draft picks as well. Bob Finnan of the News Hearld reported that the Cavs offered Z for PF David West and probably another contract. I will dedicate this blog to the reasons for the Cavs making a trade, and then list a few names you might hear in the next month.

Reasons for a Deadline Deal

1. This is the Cavs last chance to add a big name player for at least the next year. Next year, the team will have very little cap space, one first round draft pick, and a guy named LeBron James will become a free agent. The uncertainty surrounding Z and Shaq will also come into play. With Z's expiring contract and the ability to sign and trade Wally Z, the Cavs have put themselves in a position to help a team save money and cut payroll. Wally Z did sign with CBS Sports to do commentating for March Madness, so the Cavs would have to convince him to come back and at least travel with the team he is traded to. I am strongly against putting JJ Hickson or a first round pick in any deal unless its for a superstar. The Cavs need to keep young pieces around LeBron and retain as many assets as possible. LeBron wants to win many championships, not just one. You don't just throw in first round picks, no matter how late they are. Just ask the Spurs (PG Tony Parker), Knicks (PF David Lee), and Mavericks (SF Josh Howard).

2. Dan Gilbert. The Cavs have one of the best owners in the NBA. Aside from Mark Cuban, I don't know too many owners who are willing to take on more money in these economic times. We currently have the 7th largest payroll at $80.2 million. Most teams are trying to cut salary (ask the Suns, Bucks, and Nets), but Gilbert knows he can't be cheap now. He bought this team hoping to win numerous titles with LeBron James, and he will pressure the front office to continue to improve this team. He took on the contracts of Mo Williams, and Shaq. He has bought 3 second round draft picks in the last two drafts. He just got the Casino amendment passed in Ohio (which he was a big part of), and he got Chinese investors to buy a 15% stake in the Cavs (further exposing LeBron to the Far East markets). These are all seeds that Gilbert has set up in hopes of keeping LeBron.

3. Sellers Market. Right now, a lot of teams are trying to get more cap space for the summer of 2010, or trying to cut payroll to avoid paying the luxury tax. Teams such as the Washington Wizards, Philadelphia 76'ers, Utah Jazz, and New Orleans Hornets will all try to cut salary. Teams such as the Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, NY Knicks, and New Jersey Nets are trying to clear more cap space for the 2010 free agent class. Teams are trying to rid themselves of long contracts, and they appear willing to package a young player in a deal. Why do you think the Jazz gave away rookie PG Eric Maynor for nothing? Because the OKC Thunder had enough cap space to absorg F Matt Harpring's $6 million deal. Also, an important fact to remember is that only 8 teams have full season sales of 10,000 tickets or more (the Cavs being one of them), compared to 11 teams last year. As you can see, the economy is indeed affecting the NBA.

Who are some of the players that you will hear?

Antwan Jamison, PF, Washington Wizards
I have written about Jamison a few times, so no need to go over everything. He would fit great here, and I would love to have him. He is averaging 22 ppg and 9 rpg this year. He can score inside/outside, and rebound. He would be the ideal stretch 4 we could use. His defense needs some work, but Mike Brown's system could mask that. His contract goes for another 2 years after this year, but after next year he becomes an asset because he becomes an expiring contract. The most I would trade for Jamison is Z (who gets bought out by the Wiz and comes back to the Cavs), Danny Green, and a future 2nd rounder. I wouldn't use a first or JJ Hickson in this deal. Why? The Wizards have no leverage. Aside from the Dallas Mavericks (who already have Shawn Marion and Dirk), I can't think of a contending team who will take on Jamison' contract, especially since he is 33 already. The Cavs can save the Wizards $28 million by trading them Z and buying him out. We need Z's size against teams such as the Lakers, Celtics, and Magic. You saw how well we played against the Lakers with Z and Shaq out there. I think there is a good chance Jamison ends up a Cavalier, but it probably will happen the day of the deadline. We all know the mess the Wizards are in now (14-26 record) with the whole Gilbert fiasco, and the team will be blown up. The possibility of a 3 team trade has also been mentioned with Jamison and the Cavs. As a note, last year late Wizards owner Abe Pollin vetoed a deal that would have sent Jamison to Cleveland because he wanted to keep the core of the team together. Ted Leonsis is trying to buy the Wizards now (he owns the Washington Capitals of the NHL). Once the Gilbert Arenas and ownership situations begins to clear, then I believe you will start to see Wizards GM Ernie Grunfeld make some trades.

Troy Murphy, PF, Indiana Pacers
As I stated earlier, the Pacers did offer us Murphy is a lopsided trade. Again, I would trade Z (buyout) and either Danny Green or a 2nd round pick for Murphy. Murphy is a better outside shooter than Jamison, and a better rebounder, but he isn't as good of an athlete or defender. He is averaging 14 ppg and 10 rpg on 40% shooting from 3. He would fit the bill of a stretch 4. The Pacers front court already has C Roy Hibbert, PF Tyler Hansbrough, F Mike Dunleavy, and C Jeff Foster. The team is not doing well as they have a 14-26 record and a $66 million payroll. I think there is a solid shot Murphy could become a Cavalier if Jamison does not.

Kevin Martin, SG, Sacramento Kings
People will be surprised to see him here, but they need to realize that the Kings have 2 SG's on there team. Tyreke Evans is now the #1 option, and since Kevin Martin's return the Kings are 0-3. It will be hard to put 2 scorers on the floor at the same time with no real PG. Both Martin and Evans need to ball to be successful and I don't there the touches are there for both of them. Windhorst reported earlier in the year that the Cavs had an interest in Martin, and he would be a good fit here. He would be a great #2 option for the Cavs, and he is only 27 years old. He has great size 6'7 and he can flat out score. The Kings would definitely want talent back, and they would probably send the contract of Andres Nocioni as well. I am guessing JJ Hickson, Delonte West, Z, and draft picks would be involved. I don't think Martin will be traded, but you never say never.

David West, PF, New Orleans Hornets
The Cavs have already offered Z for West, so we'll see what happens. Again, West would fit well here as he can rebound and score inside and out. His contract goes for another 2 years. The Hornets would probably want JJ Hickson, and I am not sure if I would give him up along with Z. West is 29 and he has played well this year as he is averaging 17 ppg and 7 rpg. A team would have to take on the bad contracts of either James Posey, Mo Peterson, or Peja Stojakovic. The Hornets are barely above the luxury tax, and they have played well lately (21-19 this year, 7-3 last 10 games), so I don't think there is a great chance he gets moved.

Rip Hamilton, SG/ Tayshaun Prince, SF, Detroit Pistons
These are 2 names you will hear during the deadline. The Pistons drafted 3 SF's in last years NBA Draft (Jonas Jerekbo, Austin Daye, DaJuan Summers). The team signed SG Ben Gordon, and they have two guys who play the point, but are SG's in Will Bynum and Rodney Stuckey. As you can see the team has a influx of SG and SF, with no real PG or C. Both Hamilton and Prince have dealt with injuries this year. The team is currently 14-26. I am hesitant to trade for both of these guys, as we already have a guy like Prince on the Cavs in Jamario Moon, and Hamilton's contract goes for another 3 years at $12 million a year. With that said, I would rather have Hamilton than Prince only because he is a 6'7 SG who can shoot the ball very well. He is averaging 19 ppg this year, and he is a solid defender. The Pistons will want talent back, and I am not sure if the Cavs would be willing to surrender JJ Hickson in a deal for one of those two. I think one of these guys will be traded, just not to the Cavs.

Amare Stoudemire, PF, Phoenix Suns
I know last year we were all freaking out when we heard his name to the Cavs. With the Suns pedestrian play as of late (started out 14-3, and are now 24-18), frugality of owner Robert Sarver, and uncertainty of Amare's future in Phoenix makes him a possible trade target. ESPN's Chad Ford said that the odds of Amare being traded are 40-50%. Just like Chris Bosh, if Amare does not give a good signal that he will sign a contract extension, then the Suns might have to deal him in hopes of getting something in return instead of letting him walk for nothing. The Cavs would have to take on the contract of Leandro Barbosa as well. I don't think the Cavs have enough talent to trade for Amare. You would probably have to part with JJ, Z, West, and either a draft pick or the rights to Eyenga. The Suns could possibly ask for more or receive better offers elsewhere. Amare would be a great low post threat, but coupling him with Shaq could prove difficult as we saw last year in Phoenix (he is averaging 20 ppg and 8 rpg this year). He is not a good defender either but I believe coming into Mike Brown's system could help. Also, the Cavs would probably want Amare to commit to signing with us before we trade for him. I wouldn't be surprised if a 3rd team would try to get involved in a deal like this. Again, I think its highly unlikely that Amare comes here, but you never say never.

Well I think those are the names you might be hearing for the next few weeks regarding the Cavs at the deadline. Don't be surprised if Delonte West is traded for a bigger, more talented SG either. The team is looking to upgrade this position due to the inconsistency of West and they are hoping to move Anthony Parker to the bench. I would hate to see him go, but if we can get a better player, I am all for it. The reason why West is attractive is because his $4.5 million salary next year is partially guaranteed. Much like Sasha Pavlovic' contract, West has a $500,000 buyout clause in his contract. So a team that trades for him could save about $4 million if they buy him out. This makes him essentially an expiring contract. I hope West stays because I love his hustle, toughness, and fearlessness, but the Cavs will try to do anything to improve the team. As a side note, Cavs GM Danny Ferry added these partial guarantees to the final years of the contracts of Daniel Gibson, and Anderson Varajao. I also believe he did it for Jamario Moon and Anthony Parker. This gives the Cavaliers much more flexibility in terms of trades (this is how we got Shaq, Sasha' contract was partially guaranteed which saved the Suns a lot of money).

That just about does it. In the coming weeks I will write more about the Browns and there upcoming offseason/NFL Draft. If I hear any updates on potential names near the NBA trading deadline I will be sure to write about it. Thanks for reading and go Cleveland!

-Raz

One Man Gathers What Another Man Spills

Brian Windhorst of the Plain Dealer is reporting that the Cavs might be close to making a small trade. The reasoning for this is the Cavs have 4 non-guarenteed contracts on the roster. These 4 players are Coby Karl, Danny Green, Darnell Jackson, and Jawad Williams. According to Windhorst, he believes Jackson and Green are safe. This Wednesday, all contracts in the NBA are guaranteed. 15 teams are in the NBA the luxury tax, which is $69.92 million. For teams that are close to the luxury tax, they could make a trade with the Cavs for these contracts, and they could renounce them. Once the teams renounce these contracts, they will be able to cut payroll and either get under the luxury tax or save some money. A key point in these trades is that the Cavs might look to get a cheap bigman who can play sparingly if Z does get traded and bought out. If he is bought out, Z has to wait 30 days to come back, and someone will have to help fill in his minutes. Leon Powe is a candidate, but he will be coming off surgery and he might not be able to handle that workload. Some people have made the notion that Danny Ferry might ask for a draft pick in a deal as well. Here are some names that could become available.

Kosta Koufos, C, Utah Jazz

-As I have said before, the Jazz have a high payroll of $77 million. They traded PG Eric Maynor along with F Matt Harpring's large contract to the Oklahoma City Thunder for nothing. The team is 18-15, and they won't be contending for a title anytime soon. Koufos hasn't really played much with the Jazz, which is another reason I could see them trading him. He is a 7 footer who enjoys shooting 3 pointers, and he can block some shots from time to time. He sounds a lot like Z to me. This is his 2nd year in the NBA, and he is averaging 9 minutes a game. This year he is averaging only 3.5 minutes, compared to 11.8 last year. With his playing time diminished this year, the Jazz could save themselves about $2.8 million. A trade that works is Coby Karl and Jawad Williams for Koufos. If a team is over the luxury tax, they pay a dollar for dollar penalty for any contract that helps them exceed $69 million. Karl and Williams' contracts add up to about $1.4 million, and the Jazz can just cut them without having to guarantee their contracts. Koufous could serve as someone who could play limited minutes if Z gets traded and has to wait 30 days to come back to the Cavs. Now, will Koufos get traded? Probably not, but he is an interesting name to throw out there. He is in his 2nd year, his minutes have declined, the team has a high payroll, and they traded their first round pick this year to help save money. One last note, according to the Deseret News, Jazz GM Kevin O'Conner said that the team might be making a trade this week.....

Joey Dorsey PF/ Jermaine Taylor G, Houston Rockets

-This is an interesting idea here. The Cavs again could send Karl and Williams for these 2 guys. The Cavs could save the rockets around $2.8 million. The Rockets are above the luxury tax with a payroll of $73 million. While the team is playing above expectations, the team could save a few million dollars. The reason I have these two on here is because Dorsey has played 3 games this year, and Taylor has played 12. The Rockets really don't use these guys, and they have an opportunity to save some money. While Dorsey is 6'8 who is strong, athletic, he has no offensive game to speak of. He is a lot like Ben Wallace. He was a great rebounder and post defender in college. Taylor is an athletic 2 guard who can shoot but is undersized (6'4) and does not share the ball. The Cavs could use a bigman to help share minutes if Z is traded.

Royal Ivey PG/ Primoz Brezec C, Philadelphia 76'ers

-The 76'ers are another team with high payroll with mediocre results. The team has a $62 million payroll, and has a record of 10-23. Their payroll is expected to increase next year as well. Ivey is a 6'4 PG who isn't great on offense but is a solid defender. The Cavs could use a backup ballhandler. Brezec is 7'1, and he can shoot a midrange jumper. He can help play a few minutes if Z is traded and bought out. Karl and Williams will do the trick for Brezec and Ivey, and the 76'ers will save about $1.4 million. Again, since the 76'ers would be saving money, Ferry could ask for a future 2nd round pick in this deal.

Francisco Elson, C, Milwaukee Bucks

-The Bucks are a team who are a team who is doing average with a record of 13-18. The team is under the tax, but they have a high payroll of $67 million. Elson is 7'0 who is mobile and can defend the pick and roll. He could be useful if Z is traded and bought out. Karl and Williams will get the deal done. The Bucks would save about $1.4 million by trading Elson.

Again, these names are pure speculation. I by no means have any inside information. I am just trying to make sense with names that I think of. Koufos would be the name I would like to see the most. He is only 20, and he could become a serviceable bigman down the road. I really feel that Ferry might be trying to either pawn a draft pick by using a couple of the non-guaranteed deals he has or he is trying to get 4th PF/C to split time with Leon Powe while Z is gone if he is indeed traded and bought out. The reason I am writing about this is because Brian Windhorst is probably one of the best beat reporters in the NBA, and he has very reliable sources that are close to the Cavs. To me, where there is smoke, there is fire.....

Thanks and go Cleveland!

-Raz

Total Destruction

Hope everyone had a great holiday and a wonderful New Years! Here are some quick Cavs thoughts.

-According to numerous reports, the Washington Wizards are going to be blowing their team up. This shouldn't be a shock as they have 10-20 record, injuries to Antwan Jamison and Mike Miller, a $79 million payroll, and the Gilbert Arenas fiasco on hand (he supposedly had guns in the locker room, and he drew them at teammate).

-With this said, Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports is reporting that the team is looking to trade Gilbert Arenas' long contract, and Antwan Jamison. Rockets G Tracy McGrady has a $23 million expiring contract and the Wizards are apparently trying to trade for it, as they will try to use Caron Butler has a "sweetener" in the deal. The Wizards are trying to get a large expiring contract in a deal.

-With all this said, there aren't many contenders who will trade for the 33 year old Jamison. Lakers? They have no expiring contracts worth trading for. Celtics? They have small expiring contracts, and they didn't want to take on the contract of F Andres Nocioni earlier this year. They just signed Rajon Rondo to a new deal, and Ray Allen will be a free agent next year. Magic? Again they have no large expiring contracts. Hawks? Their ownership had to fight with each other to take on G Jamal Crawford's contract. Spurs? They have a bunch of small expiring deals, and that of G Manu Ginobili, but he isn't going anywhere. Suns? They are bleeding money, they traded Shaq to us to save money. Portland? They have the $9 million expiring contract of F Darius Miles, but I feel that they would be reluctant to trade some of their younger players (Rudy Fernandez/Jerryd Bayless) for Jamison. The injury of C Greg Oden really hurts this team, and they won't want to take on the 3 year contract of a 33 year old that could hamstring them in free agency.

-The Dallas Mavericks are the only team I could see going after Jamison. They have an owner who will take on more money in Mark Cuban. They have F Josh Howard who has 2 years left on his deal, with the final deal being a team option. They could use that to trade for F Jamison, but do they really need him? The team already has Shawn Marion, Drew Gooden, Erick Dampier, Dirk Nowitzki, Tim Thomas, and James Singleton at their 3 and 4 positions. The team has a payroll of $87 million this year, and you have to wonder when Mark Cuban will realize that trading young talent, draft picks, and expiring contracts (2 first round picks, Devin Harris, DeSagana Diop, Devean George, and Maurice Ager) for aging talent (Jason Kidd), will not get you a championship. You never say never in the NBA, but there is a shot Dallas gets in the mix for Jamison.

-My point is that everyone keeps throwing JJ Hickson's name in the deal. Why? What leverage do the Wiz have? Everyone knows they aren't good, and they have said that they are going to blow the team up. There aren't going to be a lot of contenders calling for Jamison, and if ownership says that the team has to cut payroll, they will have to be forced to trade Jamison. Jamison is 33 years old, and his deal goes until 2012. His production will eventually begin to erode, and while he has played well the last few seasons, he did suffer a shoulder injury that kept him out for the first few weeks of this year.

-The Cavs and LeBron know that JJ Hickson can be a solid contributor in the future, and you can't trade your young talent for aging/long contracts of players. They want to win many NBA championships, not just one. Ask the Toronto Raptors how long it took them to get back to playoff contention after they traded Tracy McGrady, Vince Carter, and Marcus Camby. Cavs GM Danny Ferry puts a lot of value into young talent and draft picks, so I find it hard that he would trade Hickson or a pick for Jamison. Ferry worked with Spurs GM RC Buford and GM Wayne Embry in Toronto. He saw how to rebuild a team in Toronto, and how to build a championship team in the Spurs.

-Also, the Wizards have to know that there are going to be other PF's on the market that the Cavs could realistically get for Z's contract. One player is PF Troy Murphy of the Indiana Pacers. According to NBA sources, the Cavs have shown interest in Murphy. Again, the Pacers will probably try to cut payroll as they have a $66 million payroll, and a 9-22 record. If they bought out Z, it would again save the team more money.

-As long as a non-contending team decides to not take on the contract of Jamison (like the Grizzlies did this year by taking on the large contract of Zach Randolph), then I could really see Jamison here with the Cavs. We could save the Wizards even more money if they agree to buy Z out of his deal. Instead of paying him the remaining $6 million of his contract, they can pay him $2 or $3 million to release him. This will help cut there luxury tax bill, as teams who are over the luxury tax pay double for any new salaries added.

-GM Danny Ferry will probably make an offer to the Wizards in the coming weeks, and just wait to it out. He will offer what he thinks is the best deal for the Cavs, and he won't hyperextend himself in adding a player like JJ Hickson or Christian Eyenga. I have heard that the Bucks wanted a draft pick in the Mo Williams deal, and the Suns wanted a first round pick in the Shaq deal. He did neither. He will continue to play hardball when looking to make a trade. Ferry will wait for a team to bite on an offer.

This Jamison story will probably continue to fester like the Stephen Jackson rumors did. Hopefully this time we will actually get Jamison. If the Cavs can get Jamison and get Z back, then I really think they can legitimately win the NBA Championship. He would add more size, scoring, and rebounding to our frontcourt. He is probably the hungriest player on the Wizards, he would definitely love to win an NBA title in his career, and the Cavs give him a great opportunity to do so. Even if the Cavs add F Troy Murphy for Z getting bought out, then we improve our chances of winning an NBA Championship. I am sure a couple more names will pop up in the near future. Stay tuned, it should be an interesting couple months. Thanks for reading and go Cleveland!

-Raz

Its that time of the year

Here are some thoughts on the Browns and Cavs.

Browns

-The hiring of Mike Holmgren to be the President of our organization seems like a step in the right direction. He is a viable face in the NFL, he has a Super Bowl ring, and he has coached well in the past. According to reports, he will have the power to hire a new GM, and a coach if he desires. I wouldn't want Holmgren picking players, because as GM of the Seahawks from 1998-2002, the only solid players he drafted were LB Anthony Simmons, RB Shaun Alexander, WR Darrell Jackson, G Steve Hutchinson, CB Ken Lucas, FB Heath Evans, G Floyd Womack, RB Maurice Morris, and DT Rocky Bernard. In these 4 drafts, he had 46 picks and only 9 of them turned out to be solid/fringe NFL players.

-John Clayton of ESPN is reporting that Holmgren will probably fire HC Eric Mangini. I know I supported Mangini when he was first hired, and I still think he is a solid coach. I think you have to give the guy one more year. Yes he got rid of Braylon Edwards, and Kellen Winslow, but the Jets have no faired well since they added Edwards, and the Bucs have won 2 games this year. Alex Mack has improved, Mo Massaqoui looks like a solid WR, LB Maiava has been solid so far (39 tackles and 1 sack), Jason Trusnik has had 44 tackles in 10 games with the Browns, and Matt Roth has been impressive in his 4 games with the Browns (2.5 sacks, and 21 tackles). Also, the team has dealt with a lot of injuries as well as D'Qwell Jackson, Shaun Rogers, CJ Mosley, Kenyon Coleman, and Brodney Pool missing time.

-Mangini has cleared up a lot of cap space for he team next year (2nd most out of any team in the NFL), and we have 11 draft picks. Lets see what he can do with them. He has done well for the last few weeks as his team fought hard against San Diego, upset the Steelers, and beat the Chiefs.

-Overall, you have to give Mangini some credit as his team has played with discipline (we are the least penalized team in the NFL), and while we might not have a lot of skill players, we fight hard. Yes, WR Brian Robiskie hasn't seen much of the field, and neither has LB David Veikune, but Mangini has been finding some solid players. We can't just say game over after one year with Mangini. We need to be patient, make good use of our cap space, and draft solid players. It is easy to fold your tent when you have one win playing the Steelers, but the team showed that they were not going to back down from anyone. This is a testament to coaching.

-I feel that if Mangini does stay, it will be good to have a GM over him. This is because Mangini right now is doing 2 jobs, which can be very overwhelming. If Mangini turns his attention to coaching, then I think we will see better results.

Cavs

-Everyone seems to be in an uproar about how the team isn't blowing teams out anymore. Well don't expect us to win 66 games this year. Its not about the regular season. Yes, getting a top seed is important, but we need to save our energy and resources for the postseason. Last year, it was smooth sailing the entire year. We faced no problems, no adversity, but when lost game 1 versus the Magic at home, we didn't know how to react. We lost that invincibility. Throughout the year, teams were adjusting to our play, but when we had to adjust to the Magic, we had no idea what to do. The team last year faced no adversity, and its good that we are going through all the bumps in the road now. I would rather have this team be battled tested now, lose a few more games, save some energy and bodies, then winning 66 games again.

-Everyone is whining about how Shaq doesn't fit here. Read Chris Broussard's article about Shaq, its a good one (http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/insider/news/story?id=4762941). Our 3 point shooting is #1 in the league (44%). I am sure Shaq has had some effect on that. Also, Shaq isn't here to beat the Bobcats, Kings, and Warriors. He is here to beat the Magic, Celtics, and Lakers. He will be judged on how well he does in May and June.

-LeBron needs to not stall the offense in the fourth quarter. He gets in LeIso mode, and he dribbles for 15 seconds. The team needs to continue to move the ball around, and keep the ball out of LeBron's hands. We need him coming off screens, setting picks, and rolling to the basket. When everyone stands around LeBron, we become a very ineffective team.

-I have stated numerous times, that this team needs to make a trade. We will barely get out of the Eastern Conference with this team. The Lakers will make quick work of us in the Finals. We need either a tall guard who can create his own shot, or a bigman who can stretch the floor and create his own shot. Antwan Jamison sounds perfect right about now. Brian Windhorst, and Marc Stein have re-iterated that the Cavs have been active on the phone for trades. I would expect a deal to go down before the deadline. Again, as a sign of the tough economic times, the Utah Jazz gave away rookie PG Eric Maynor to the OKC Thunder, along with Matt Harpring's $6 million contract. The Jazz basically said we will give you a young rookie PG if you take on $6 million of salary. The Jazz can't afford to pay the luxury tax, and this shows how desperate they were to get under the luxury tax line. The Pacers, and Hornets are 2 examples of teams in financial problems as well. Again, the Cavs have Z's expiring deal, and the ability to sign and trade Wally Z in a trade. These two trade chips could be very valuable to teams who are looking to get under the tax or get cap space for the future. The NBA trade stove will be cooking for the next couple months.

This about does it. If I hear any substantial rumors about trades, I will be sure to right about them. Until then, have a great holiday and go Cleveland!

-Raz

Blowin in the Wind (Part 1)

Its been awhile since I last wrote, I apologize. I had foot surgery, finals, and laziness all in one. In this blog, I am going to discuss some possible trade options for the Cavs in the coming months.

Brian Windhorst of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported last night that the Cavs have made inquires of 3 PF's. He believes that the Cavs biggest need is a PF due to the fact that we might have to play Kevin Garnett, Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol, and Rashard Lewis in the playoffs. I don't disagree with this, as I do believe the Cavs need an inside/outside PF who can score. I also would love to see the Cavs get either a solid backup PG (one who can handle the ball and set up an offense), or a tall SG who can defend and create his own shot.

As I have stated before, the Cavs have a few assets in their hands. One, they have young players with some upside with cheap rookie contracts (JJ Hickson, Christian Eyenga, Danny Green, Darnell Jackson, and Sasha Kaun). The Cavs will only include Hickson in a deal if it is for a super star or a "home run" deal. Two, the Cavs have the expiring contracts of Z. It is worth about $11 million which can give a team some cap space, or get under the luxury tax. We can also sign and trade Wally Z because we own his bird rights. Three, the Cavs have draft picks to trade as well have they have their first round picks for the next few years at their disposal. With all this said, here are the names that Windhorst said, and my thoughts.

Anthony Randolph, PF, Golden State Warriors

-Randolph is 21 years old, who was drafted in the same draft class of JJ Hickson. He is 6'11, can handle the ball, athletic, and can score inside and out. The problem with Randolph is that he is still somewhat raw, skinny, and he has had immaturity issues. He left after his first year at LSU, and he has had many run-ins with Warriors head coach Don Nelson (who hasn't!). The Warriors are 7-19 and last in their division, so they seem destined to blow their team up. He is averaging 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 block a game, in 23 minutes per game. There have been some discussions according to the San Jose Mercury News that the Cavs might be offering Hickson straight up for Randolph. I don't see the Warriors doing this trade as I think they are going to try to package him in a deal with a bad contract (Corey Maggette). According to Windhorst, Cavs coach Mike Brown is enamored with Randolph because of his size and athleticism. Randolph would give us some more size up front, but again he is an unproven scorer, and in a year where we are aiming for a championship, I don't want to put it on the shoulders on a 21 year old sophomore.

Troy Murphy, PF, Indiana Pacers

-Murphy is a 29 year old 6'11 PF who is averaging 13 points and 9 rebounds a game. The Pacers are 9-16 and are last place in the Central Division. He is very good defensive rebounder, a great pick and pop player, and he can shoot the 3 ball very well (39% for his career). He would fit in perfectly with what we want to do offensively because he can space the floor out to the 3 point line, and rebound. Again, he would give us size on our frontcourt. The problem with Murphy is two things, one, he is very slow on defense. He will get killed on pick and rolls, and he cannot play physical in the post. Two, his contract goes until 2011 for $11 million. Murphy would be a good backdrop option for the Cavs because he does what we need to do offensively, except he would hurt us on defense. With the Cavs going all in this year, and have Dan Gilbert as an owner, I don't think his contract will be as big of a problem. I wouldn't trade Hickson for him, but I would definitely trade Z for him.....

Antwan Jamison, PF, Washington Wizards

-Jamison is a 6'9 PF who is averaging 21 points and 8 rebounds. The Wizards are 8-17, and seem to be headed no where. Yes, Mike Miller is injured, but will he make that much of a difference? For the past four years, the Wizards have blamed injuries for their mediocre performance, but the more I hear that, the more I think that this team isn't that good. The Wizards have a payroll of $79 million, and if we took Jamison' contract off their books, their payroll would be around $40-44 million next year (they have 8 expiring contracts). I would love to have Jamison here, as he can score inside and out, he is a leader, and he has been consistent over his career. He fits in with what we need, as he has size, and can defend as well. He can match up with Odom, Rasheed, and Rashard Lewis. He is averaging 20 points and 8 rebounds for his career, and this year he is averaging 21 points and 8 rebounds. Some drawbacks to getting Jamison would be that his contract is very long. It goes until 2012, and he gets paid $11 million this year, $13 million next year, and $15 million the year after. This could badly hamstring us in free agency in the future. Also, Jamison is 33 years old, and he will be 35 when his contract ends. Can he continue to play at this level for the next 2 and a half years? The only hurdle I see getting in our way of getting Jamison is Washington's willingness to trade him to us. Their owner Abe Pollin just passed away, and the team has stated they are going to wait for Mike Miller to come back to see if they can get into contention. I still think Jamison's name will be one that is floated around a lot in the next couple of months. Would I trade trade Z and Hickson for Jamison? Yes, but I would strongly prefer that we buy Z out and bring him back to bolster our front court. I will say this, if the Cavs do acquire Jamison then the Cavs are my favorites to win the NBA Championship.

Here are some other names one could see get floated around in the next few months:

David West, PF, New Orleans Hornets

-The key to looking at possible players to get traded is to see teams with high payrolls, that are not doing well. New Orleans is a team that has documented financial troubles, and their team payroll is $74 million, and their payroll next year as it stands will be $73 million. The team is hamstrung by the bad contracts of James Posey (another 3 years), Peja Stojakovic (another 2 years), Emeka Okafor (another 4 years), Morris Peterson (another 2 years). David West' contract goes for another 3 years as well. The Hornets are currently 12-14, and even if they do make the playoffs, they probably won't go far. West is a great pick and pop player, he can stretch the floor, shoot well, and defend the pick and roll. He is 6'9, and isn't as athletic as Randolph or Jamison. He is averaging 16 points and 7 rebounds a game, and he would be a solid addition to the Cavs. Z's expiring contract would provide some luxury tax relief for the Hornets.

Corey Maggette, SG, Golden State Warriors

-As I explained earlier, the Warriors seem destined to blow up their team, and they can start by getting rid of this guys contract. It goes until 2013, and Maggette is already 30 years old. He would be great off the bench as he can create his own offense, and draw a high rate of fouls. He is averaging 16 points and 5 rebounds a game. He is 6'6, and while he doesn't play D in Golden State, he has the skills to be a solid defender here in Cleveland. He would give us more size on our team, but his contract scares me a lot.

Caron Butler, SG/SF, Washington Wizards

-Again, with the Wizards' struggles of late, I wouldn't be surprised if they cleaned house. Butler is 29, and has a contract that goes until 2011. He is struggling this season as he is averaging 17 points and 7 rebounds, but he is shooting 30% from 3 and 43% from the field. Historically he is a great mid range shooter, and who has good athleticism. He is also a solid defender has he can anticipate passing lanes well, as he averages about 1.5 steals a game. I don't think Butler would put us over the top, but he definitely would provide us with some size and scoring, but again, will the Wizards trade him to us?

Well that just about does it, I will talk about the Browns/Holmgren situation next time. Until then, go Cleveland!

-Raz

Mount Ellis?

Right when we thought we were done talking trades regarding the Golden State Warriors, Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News has reported that Monta Ellis and his agent will meet with the Warriors this week to discuss is future. I'm not close in any NBA circle, but I believe that if your meeting with a team the week one of your best players gets traded, something isn't right. According to other reports, Ellis has been very upset with coach Don Nelson, and he even said today that he was the teams only defender, because of the trade of Jackson. Another source indicated that the Warriors HAVE been calling teams to offer Ellis in a trade. He doesn't seem happy, and I think he saw the blueprint of getting your way out of Golden State. Complain to the media enough, and alienate your teammates will get you your wish. The entire franchise seems to be a mess. Don Nelson never got along with GM Chris Mullin, and he eventually was replaced by Larry Riley. Ever since their epic upset of the Dallas Mavericks in the 2007 playoffs, this team hasn't made a playoff series, and they seem to be in a serious disconnect. The team let Baron Davis go, let Mickael Pietrus go, traded Jason Richardson, let Matt Barnes go, and traded Stephen Jackson. There doesn't seem to be any continuity with this team. As if things weren't bad enough, it is being reported that F Anthony Randolph is also very upset with the team, but I highly doubt they will trade him.

Another reason you could see Ellis get traded is the fact that the team is going no where. The Warriors are 3-6, they just traded Jackson, and they are battling a bunch of injuries. G Kelenna Azibuke is out for the year, F Brandon Wright will be out for an extended period of time, newly acquired G Raja Bell is having wrist surgery, and C Andris Biedrins is battling a bad back. The Warriors season already looks to be in trouble and we are only 9 games in.

In regards to Ellis, I can see him getting traded, but I have a feeling he will stay put. He is young (24 years old), has solid size for a PG (6-3), solid defender, good finisher, has lightning quick speed, and he has a solid mid-rangejumper. He doesn't dish out a lot of assists (5 per game), and he can't really shoot the 3 well (29% for his career). I just don't see how he would fit here in Cleveland. We already have a PG in Mo Williams, and while he isn't a great assist man, neither is Ellis. You could move Mo to the bench, but you would have to trade a combination of Gibson/West/Hickson/Z. If you have to trade Hickson to get Ellis, I wouldn't do it. I wouldn't trade Z for him unless you could get another bigman in return (Ronny Turiaf). If you can trade him for Wally and Delonte/Daniel, then I might consider it, but I would still be hesitant trading Delonte. He returned tonight, and while he is still uncertain, he can handle the ball and he can play D on the perimeter.

Ellis' contract is also very long. It pays him $11 million for the next 4 seasons. While it isn't that bad because he is so young, but it could hamstring us in a couple years when it comes time for free agency. With Ellis' elite speed, he seems better suited to play in a fast paced style of offense, such as the one in Golden State or New York. Also, Ellis does not have to size to guard Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Vince Carter, and Kobe Bryant, which was something Jackson had (this is one reason I wanted Jackson). While this isn't a fact, I don't think the Warriors will trade Ellis for pennies on the dollar like they did Jackson. They will look to get nearly full value for him because it would look bad to their fan base if they trade 2 of their best players for either draft picks, young un-proven players, or expiring contracts.

I have always been a big fan of Ellis, he is an excitingly good player. I just don't think he fits with the Cavs style of play. The Cavs biggest need is a tall SG/SF who can guard the perimeter, score at will, and be willing to come off the bench. Ellis doesn't fully fit that description for me. I just think the Cavs will end up having to give up more than people expect. You never say never in the NBA, but don't count on Ellis wearing a Cavs uniform anytime soon.

Also, since Allen Iverson has been released, people have tried to rationalize him on the Cavs. You have a better chance of me playing on the Cavs than AI. He is a small SG at 6'0, who doesn't defend, pass, and isn't willing to come off the bench. Not the exact description the Cavs are looking for.

If I hear any updates about Ellis or other possible name, I will continue to write my thoughts to put some pieces together. Untill then, thank you and go Cleveland!

-Raz

No Jackson

Well I guess we can kill all discussion about a possible trade for a Stephen Jackson deal. The Warriors traded him to the Bobcats for G Raja Bell and F Vlad Radmonovic. With the uncertainty of Delonte West this season, I really thought the chances of trading for Jackson would be high. As I stated earlier, I always thought Jackson would be a good fit for our squad. He can defend the perimeter, he can score, and he worked with Mike Brown in Indiana and San Antonio. According to Brian Windhorst, the Cavs offered Z in the deal but only if he would take a buy out. According to Marc Stein of ESPN we offered Delonte and a sign and trade of Wally for Jackson. Apparently the Warriors were close to accepting the Delonte deal, but the Bobcats came up with a better offer. I feel like the reason why the Warriors didn't accept our deal was because of the Pau Gasol effect. They would be trading Jackson for almost nothing, especially with Delonte's pending court case and the uncertainty of his mental condition. At least with the Bobcats deal they get a defender in Bell, who also has an expiring contract. Radmonovic provides Don Nelson a 6'10 bigman who can shoot. We know how much Nelson loves shooters.

To be honest with you, I would've done both deals. Delonte right now is stabilizing and he needs to get his life in order. He has not been responsible, evident in the fact that he has not been taking his meds, and that he got caught with his gun charges. The Cavs cannot babysit him his whole life, he needs to put his life in order. I love him as a player, and as a person he his hilarious, but he has to show that he is going to be accountable for his actions. With Z, I have stated before that I am not going to be upset if he gets traded. His expiring deal is a huge trade chip for us and if it can get us a player who will improve our roster I am all for it. If we can buy him out even better, and we also must get a bigman in return if he is traded.

Where do the Cavs go from here? I don't know any available names right now. I can guess some guys who could become available. The key is to look at teams who are not contending, not rebuilding, and have high pay rolls. There are two teams that I can think of that fit this mold right now, the Washington Wizards, and the New Orleans Hornets. The Wizards are 2-7 and the Hornets are 3-8. The Wizards added Randy Foye and Mike Miller this offseason, and have Gilbert Arenas fully healthy, and were expected to be the 4th seed in the East. Instead their offense has sputtered (94 ppg), Arenas is averaging 4 turnovers a game, and the team can't defend well (allowing 98 ppg). The team has the 8th highest payroll at $79 million and they are paying the luxury tax. The team isn't rebuilding with a core of Jamison, Butler, Arenas, Miller, and Foye. If the team isn't going anywhere soon, they might as well rid themselves of a bad contract or two. Caron Butler could be a name you hear as his deal goes till 2011.

The New Orleans Hornets are a team that could start unloading some of its players as well. With a payroll of $73 million, they have the 11th highest payroll in the league. The team isn't rebuilding with such a high payroll, and the team has no viable young talent (Julian Wright? ha, Hilton Armstong? ha). Some players names you might hear are Emeka Okafor (contract till 2014), Peja Stojakovic (contract till 2011), and David West (contract till 2011). I really don't want any part of Okafor or Stojakovic, but I wouldn't mind West. Peja is another Wally Z, and Okafor has a very long contract, who isn't that good at scoring in the post. The problem with West is that we are seeing JJ Hickson develop before our eyes (18 and 20 points the last two nights), and we still have Leon Powe waiting to play in February. We might not need another PF.

Hickson is untouchable according to Windhorst, which is reasonable. Hickson won't get traded unless its for a superstar (Chris Bosh or Chris Paul). Also, I mentioned earlier that Rudy Gay could be a guy whose name you hear later in the year as well. Remember the Cavs have assets to make a trade, young talent (Danny Green, Christian Eyenga, JJ Hickson, Darnell Jackson, expiring contract (Z), non-guarenteed deals for 2010 (Delonte West, Jawad Williams, Leon Powe) and a draft pick (first round in 2010 NBA Draft). If a team is looking to unload some salary, they can attach it to a good player come February. Only time will tell....

Thanks for reading, go Cleveland!

-Raz