The Cavaliers have made one trade ahead of Thursday’s deadline and more could be on the way. And once the dust settles, they’ll have a decision to make with two-way big man Nae’Qwan Tomlin.
As you likely know, the Cavs are sending forward De’Andre Hunter to the Kings for Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder. They are also set to receive two-way man Emanuel Miller from the Bulls.
Oh, and they’re also waiving two-way wing Luke Travers.
That leads us to Tomlin. Once the Hunter trade is official, the Cavs’ standard roster will be full. That means there won’t be any room to convert two-way players.
This is a bit of a pickle because Tomlin has become a rotation regular in his second season — and a fairly valuable one at that. He has consistently brought energy, athleticism, a little toughness and a positive team-first attitude.
But he is reaching the 50-game threshold that two-way guys are permitted to play in the NBA. So what’s next?
The answer remains up in the air, and something the Cavs will figure out after the deadline. They’re still busy working the phones at the moment.
According to Hoops Wire sources, the Cavs are likely to promote Tomlin. They just will have to wait, either for another trade or by waiving someone (again, after the deadline). So unless something drastic changes, Tomlin eventually will be a member of the standard roster.
Still, a few things need to take place before that can happen. Count on them happening.
Tomlin, 25, is 6-foot-8 and has appeared in 39 games (entering Sunday night), with averages of 6.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 48.6 percent shooting.
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It has no bearing on your article, but it’s always interesting that Tomlin is listed as 6’8″ and Allen at 6’11” (7footer) and there is less than an inch difference in height. #frofactor