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According to a report from ESPN’s Chris Haynes, former Milwaukee Bucks center Larry Sanders is in Cleveland for a workout with the Cavs. Sanders, who hasn’t played in the NBA since the 2014-15 season, previously has worked out with the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers.
Cleveland believed to have workout set with free agent Larry Sanders today, sources tell ESPN. Sanders hasn't played since 2014-15 season.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 22, 2017
Sanders himself hinted at the workout by Snapchatting a picture with a Cleveland geotag:
Workout tomorrow? pic.twitter.com/m6M94UtFtY
— Championship Chopz (@Pchopz_) February 22, 2017
At this best, Sanders was one of the best defenders in the NBA for Milwaukee and walked away from $27 million during the 2014-15 season. When he left, it was because he was dealing with depression. He also did fail a drug test for marijuana and was suspended for 10 games during the 2015 season.
Sanders’ Boston workout was reportedly underwhelming and the Celtics believe that he needs to put on weight. The Golden State Warriors also reportedly had interest before the start of the season.
If the Cavs do sign Sanders, the upside is higher than other names potentially available. But he hasn’t played in the NBA in two seasons and it’s unclear where he’s at basketball wise right now.
The Cavs, who do have two roster spots open at the moment after not (yet) signing Derrick Williams to a second 10-day contract, likely will wait until the buyout market takes shaping before committing to a player. Sanders could also be signed to a 10-day deal and get a shot in time for the Cavs to decide on his fit. And Cleveland could use a big to fill minutes with Kevin Love out for six weeks after undergoing knee surgery.