NBA Notes: Cavs, Meleek Thomas, Raptors, Heat, LeBron James

Cavaliers

Meleek Thomas is making an early impression.

The Cavaliers rookie followed his 20-point Summer League debut with a 30-point outing against Detroit, adding seven assists and four steals while continuing to flash the two-way skill set that made him an intriguing second-round pick.

As Arya Chawla of SI.com noted, Thomas has looked comfortable both on and off the ball, knocking down perimeter shots, attacking the basket and creating for teammates while bringing consistent energy on the defensive end.

It’s only Summer League, of course. But through two games, Thomas has given the Cavaliers plenty to like.

Raptors

Could Toronto have another move in the works? Not necessarily.

But as Rocco Moschella of SI.com pointed out, the Raptors have a pair of contracts that could become valuable trade chips if the front office decides to stay active.

RJ Barrett enters the final year of his contract, while Immanuel Quickley remains under team control on a deal that could appeal to clubs looking for a proven starting point guard.

Neither player appears to be on the trade block.

Still, Toronto has positioned itself with plenty of flexibility if another opportunity presents itself.

Heat

Everyone seems to have an opinion on where LeBron James should finish his career.

One writer believes the answer is Miami.

In a column for SI.com, Geo Valdez argued that the Heat have quietly assembled the ideal roster around the four-time MVP, pointing to Miami’s defensive depth, floor spacing and Erik Spoelstra’s system as reasons James could thrive there at age 41.

James has been linked to several contenders since entering free agency, including Cleveland, Philadelphia, Golden State and Miami.

As of now, though, we are all just guessing. Like it or not, that’s just the way LeBron free agency goes.

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