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The Cleveland Cavaliers were quiet at the trade deadline. It was a nice break from the Kevin Love rumors that highlighted past deadlines as the Cavs biggest acquisition was made in January, when the team traded for Kyle Korver.
The assumption was that the Cavaliers would look to the buyout market after the deadline to address the holes in their roster. With players like Andrew Bogut and Terrence Jones being waived, attractive options are now becoming available to assist the Cavs in defending their title.
One of the biggest names connected to the Cavs over the past month or so has been Deron Williams. The former star point guard has been the subject of much buyout speculation. Now it appears as though the ball is in his court:
The Mavs have told Deron Williams they will pay off the full remaining amount of his deal if he wants to be a free agent, league sources say
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 23, 2017
In addition to that, the Cavaliers appear to be the front-runner should Williams be waived.
If Mavericks waive (not a buyout) Deron Williams, all signs point to DWill quickly working out a deal with the Cavs, per league sources.
— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) February 23, 2017
This would obviously be a tremendous addition for the Cavaliers. Williams is averaging 13.1 points and 6.9 assists per game this season with the Mavericks. This would give Cleveland a veteran presence off the bench that could even play in two-point guard lineups next to Kyrie Irving.
It’s possible that the Cavs sign Williams, as well as free up another roster spot through a buyout to sign one of the aforementioned big men, or Larry Sanders. If that comes to fruition, it will go a long way towards limiting the load on the big three.