Cavaliers
The Cavaliers haven’t made a major move this offseason, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the roster is set. Far from it.
Tommy Wild of Roundtable recently identified three players he believes could emerge as trade candidates if the Cavaliers decide to shake things up before training camp. (And here’s to guessing they will.)
Max Strus topped the list. Wild pointed to Strus’ $16.6 million salary and solid value around the league as reasons the veteran wing could help the Cavs create financial flexibility while potentially bringing back future draft assets or helping facilitate a larger deal.
Dennis Schroder also made the cut.
According to Wild, Cleveland’s crowded backcourt could make the veteran guard expendable, particularly with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Craig Porter Jr., Tyrese Proctor and rookie Meleek Thomas all expected to compete for minutes.
The third name was Jaylon Tyson, though for a much different reason.
Wild stressed the Cavs shouldn’t be looking to move the second-year forward after his breakout campaign. Still, Tyson’s age, upside and trade value could make him the type of player another team would request if the Cavs pursue a significant upgrade.
Granted, it’s all speculation. But with the NBA offseason rarely slowing down, it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards may have an easier path to the scoring title next season.
That’s the belief of Joe Nelson of Sports Illustrated, who pointed to the addition of LaMelo Ball as a move that could dramatically change how defenses attack Minnesota.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst made a similar point during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show.
“From the minute Karl-Anthony Towns got traded, Ant Edwards has been relentlessly double-teamed,” Windhorst said. “The guy that they could get was LaMelo.”
Windhorst believes Ball’s ability to create offense will make teams think twice before sending extra defenders at Edwards, potentially freeing the Timberwolves star for even bigger offensive numbers.
Edwards averaged 28.8 points last season despite facing constant double-teams, finishing third in the NBA in scoring.
If opposing defenses are forced to respect Ball as much as expected, Minnesota may discover Edwards has another level to reach.
Hornets
The Hornets have officially locked up two more members of their future.
Charlotte announced the signings of first-round picks Hannes Steinbach and Christian Anderson Jr., via Dana Gauruder of Hoops Rumors.
Steinbach, the 14th overall selection, earned All-Big Ten honors after leading the nation in rebounding during his lone season at Washington. The 6-foot-11 big man averaged 18.5 points and 11.8 rebounds after arriving from Germany.
Anderson, selected four picks later, broke out at Texas Tech by averaging 18.5 points and 7.4 assists while earning First Team All-Big 12 honors and the conference’s Most Improved Player award.
Both players signed standard rookie-scale contracts.
MORE HOOPS | NBA free agents by position
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!
