The Cavaliers have officially signed point guards Ricky Rubio and Raul Neto, and center Robin Lopez, president of basketball operations Koby Altman announced in a press release.
“Our focus during this offseason has been centered around making this team better and finding the best talent to help strengthen this roster,” Altman said. “When you think about the impact Ricky had on our team last season, his addition became a priority to bring back to Cleveland.
“We also feel Robin and Raul are both high character guys who have played a great amount of meaningful basketball and will bring the right balance of seasoned experience and depth to our emerging young core. We are excited for Ricky’s return and welcome Robin and Raul to the Cavaliers family.”
Per Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports, the Cavs and Rubio agreed to a three-year, $18.4 million contract. The third year is partially guaranteed, added Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Rubio, 31, had a banner half-season in his first year in Cleveland, tying his career-high by averaging 13.1 points. He also passed for 6.6 assists and grabbed 4.1 rebounds — before suffering a torn ACL in December. He was later traded to the Pacers as part of the Caris LeVert deal.
But he became a free agent this offseason and is expected to be ready to play again sometime around January.
Neto, 30, is expected to keep Rubio’s seat warm in the meantime. He has spent each of the past two seasons with the Wizards, averaging 7.5 points and 3.1 assists last year, while shooting 46 percent from the field. He as also spent time with the 76ers and Jazz.
Lopez, 34, appeared in 36 games with the Magic last season, averaging 7.1 points and 3.5 rebounds. He is the twin brother of Bucks center Brook Lopez.
Cleveland did not tender a qualifying offer to Moses Brown and is not expected to re-sign free agent Ed Davis — and has therefore been seeking a veteran backup for All-Star Jarrett Allen. Lopez has played such a role in many spots throughout his 14-year career.
In fact, the Cavs will serve as his fourth team in four seasons. Along with the Magic, he has also spent time with the Wizards, Bucks, Bulls, Knicks, Trail Blazers, Hornets and Suns.
He also offers another veteran presence for a team with an otherwise young, up-and-coming core that includes Allen, fellow All-Star Darius Garland, All-Rookie first-team Evan Mobley and others.
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