Earlier Monday the Cavaliers announced that 36 year-old shooting guard Anthony Parker will be returning to the team on a one-year deal in which terms were not immediately announced.
Parker had drawn slight interest from the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks but eventually selected to return back to his familiar role in Cleveland as veteran leader and the likely starting shooting guard for the Cavaliers.
The former two-time Euroleague MVP should slot in to the starting backcourt with either Baron Davis or (hopefully) Kyrie Irving. His ability to knock down the 3 pointer will be a key again in his third season in Cleveland.
I'm a big fan of this deal for a couple reasons. Parker should be able to still deliver a couple stunning performances just as he did in the home win over Miami last season when he logged 20 points and 8 rebounds. The size and physicality he can bring defensively at the shooting guard spot is a great asset when playing tough shooting guards like Dwyane Wade so Baron Davis or Kyrie Irving doesn't have to handle that assignment.
Lastly, it's a one-year deal. The team isn't on the hook for much and the scenario I'm hoping for is that Parker gives Irving a productive partner this season until ultimately leaving next summer as the Cavaliers draft their shooting guard of the future.
There were a few other notable items that came out of Monday's media day at Cavaliers training camp.
- Official measurements cite that Christian Eyenga has grown 2 inches since last season. He spent much of last season playing shooting guard, but now should be able to play both SG and SF while standing at 6-foot 7-inches.
- Omri Casspi will wear number 36 for the Cavaliers. He previously wore number 18 with the Sacramento Kings
- The Cavaliers are yet to make a decision regarding Baron Davis. The veteran guard is currently sidelined with back problems, but they do not appear to be too serious. The Cavs have the opportunity to waive Davis using the amnesty clause and take his contract off of their salary cap. Expect for the Cavs to make a decision on Baron Davis in the following days.