Cavs Still Seek Playmaking And More As Trade Season Tips Off

While the Cavaliers just landed Rajon Rondo in a three-team trade, and Rondo is about ready to play, there are still more deals to be had.

In short, don’t expect Cavs general manager Koby Altman to stand pat just because this season is going better than expected.

Granted, Altman doesn’t seem likely to make any sort of “splashy” move. The Cavs already have a pretty cool and rising roster as is — centered on the nucleus of Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, Lauri Markkanen and rookie Evan Mobley.

But if there is a low-level move out there that can help the team, the Cavs will undoubtedly pull the trigger.

For starters, they are still exploring ways to try to replace injured guard Collin Sexton, in an effort to find more scoring. Sexton averaged 24.3 points last season and 16.0 this year before suffering a season-ending knee injury.

Plus, he’ll be a restricted free agent at the end of the season. So a cloud of mystery surrounds his future with the Cavs.

Magic shooting guard Terrence Ross, Kings shooting guard Buddy Hield, Pacers guard Caris LeVert and 76ers star guard/forward Ben Simmons are some of the names that have been linked to the Cavs.

Reports suggest the Cavs have spoken to both the Pacers and 76ers, but it’s believed no deal has come close — and may not ever. One opposing GM suggested the Cavs could be a third team in a possible Simmons trade, as opposed to being the team that actually lands Simmons.

Without question, the Cavs have an interest in LeVert, who is said to be available. But again, Altman has no plans to shake up the core of what’s been working.

Along with scoring, the Cavs remain on the lookout for help in the facilitating department.

Veteran NBA insider Marc Stein of the Stein Line just reported Friday that the Cavs will continue to seek more playmaking, even after trading for Rondo.

Not all of the Cavs’ efforts to improve will be focused on trades, of course. They’ll still be doing their due diligence when it comes to available veteran free agents and potential G League standouts.

But with the trade deadline just about a month away (Feb. 10), it appears Altman is staying active and looking for more help in a season that’s already gone better than expected.

For the Cavs, it’s just a matter of finding the right path to keep this good thing going.