The Cavaliers are expected to look for another short-term option at the shooting guard or small forward position ahead of the trade deadline, league sources told Zach Lowe of ESPN.
That fits with what Hoops Wire reported earlier this season, with sources saying they believe the Cavs are in the market for more perimeter shooting, particularly from the corners.
They entered the season with a battle for the starting small forward spot, with no one really outright claiming it. So far this season, they have started Caris LeVert, Isaac Okoro, and currently, Lamar Stevens. While all have their plusses, none are the type of shooter who can spread the floor.
The Cavs (22-14) are expected to pursue outside shooting either via trade or from the list of available free agents. They may also give some G League players a try before the Feb. 9 trade deadline.
While it’s too soon to say who the Cavs may pursue, players such as Pistons wing Alec Burks, Magic guard/forward Terrence Ross and veteran shooting guard Wayne Ellington are among the players who could be on their radar. Burks is believed to be available and is shooting a career-high 43 percent on 3-pointers.
Ellington, 35, is unsigned after appearing in 43 games with the Lakers last season and averaging 6.7 points. Both Ellington and Burks have had previous stints with the Cavs.
Ross, 31, indicated before the season that he would prefer to play for a playoff contender at this stage of his career. He is averaging 8.0 points, but shooting just 35 percent on 3-pointers. The Cavs had an interest in him during the summer, sources told Hoops Wire.
That said, it is not known if the Cavs are actually in pursuit of any of those three players for the time being. But they do seemingly want someone, somewhere to serve as a reliable jump shooter, and by all accounts, the search has begun.
The NBA trade deadline is Feb. 9.
Cleveland has lost three straight heading into Saturday’s road game vs. the Bulls. You can check out more on our Cavs page right here.
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