Author: Monojit Mandal
According to cleveland.com, as the much-anticipated 2023 NBA draft approaches, experts have said that the Cleveland Cavaliers, known for their aggressive and opportunistic style, are considering a trade at the end of the first round.
The Cavaliers are currently without a first-round pick, who was traded to the Indiana Pacers as part of the Caris LeVert deal last year, but they have not allowed this to disrupt their preparations. Despite missing out on the first pick of the draft, the Cavaliers studied the players throughout the college basketball season, watching extensive game footage and analyzing statistical data. At the moment, the club has the 49th overall pick, but has already held several group training sessions and interviews with candidates in this area.
Although members of the front office and scouting staff are satisfied with the current situation and feel they can identify a bright young talent in the second round, there is a common desire in the organization to move up the order. According to sources, the Cavaliers have contacted many clubs in the 20-30 age bracket to determine the possible cost of a trade.
This attempt to move up is based on the notion that playoff clubs prioritize experienced players who can immediately contribute to their lineups, especially at the wing position, which is Cleveland’s most pressing need. In contrast to the uncertainty of the 49th overall pick, historical evidence shows that picking a player at the end of the first round considerably increases the likelihood of getting a player who can help the team’s short-term playoff hopes.
As for possible trade partners, the Brooklyn Nets have two picks, 21 and 22, while the Portland Trail Blazers, who currently have the third overall pick, also have the 23rd pick. The Indiana Pacers (picks 26 and 29) and the Charlotte Hornets (pick 27) are also considered trade candidates, although the exact cost of the move is unknown.
The Cavaliers are unable to offer a future first-round pick at the moment, due to the big Donovan Mitchell deal in September, which decimated the team’s main commercial assets. To make a trade possible during the draft, Cleveland would need to use innovative techniques, such as grouping together future second-round picks or perhaps putting one of their disposable players, such as Lamar Stevens, Cedi Osman, Dean Wade or Ricky Rubio, on a bigger deal.