With the 2023 NBA Finals ending and free agency a few days away, the offseason is in full swing. The Cleveland Cavaliers are one team expected to make some noise this offseason. Most recently it was them making a call to the Philadelphia 76ers. Cleveland had been interested in trading for power forward Tobias Harris. Philly then tasked Cleveland for a ridiculous package.
High Asking Price
Philly wanted a package that included Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, and draft picks. This outlandish request was a quick “no” by the Cavaliers. Asking a team to give up two of its core group for one player who has been below-average for years is insane. It is clear now that Philly will not trade Harris unless it significantly improves their team. Other teams who have been linked to Harris are the Dallas Mavericks, Indiana Pacers, and the Detroit Pistons.
According to BleacherReport.com, Philly is overvaluing Harris asking for “outrageous packages in return.” The reports also stated that the team is not negotiating in good faith. This will complicate the market overall this offseason. Harris averaged 14 ppg, 5 rpg, and 2 apg this season. He has $39.2 million remaining on his contract as well. These numbers are solid but they are not as good as the numbers Mobley and Allen put up consistently.
The Cleveland Cavaliers could really use Harris as their 3-and-D guy but with a price like that he is not worth it. Cleveland could easily find a better trade for a player that could help them just as much. It seems that the Cavs will focus on re-signing Caris LeVert as he showed flashes of greatness throughout the season. LeVert is an unrestricted free agent but has shown interest in returning to Cleveland.
A Young Team With A Bright Future
The Cleveland Cavaliers’ core group of Mitchell, Garland, Mobley, and Allen is a solid starting line-up. All they need is a starting power forward to really open up the playbook. Fixing the hole in the starting line-up could take Cleveland from a good team to a great team. Adding a few shooters off the bench would also put the Cavs in a prime position.
Cleveland is still a very young team and last season was their first time in the playoffs together. It did not end well but it was a great learning experience and they now have some playoff experience. The Cleveland Cavaliers have the chance to be a contender for years to come if they can just make the right moves. Only time will tell as free agency starts June 30th. Will Cleveland get their guys?
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