Cavaliers engaged in Paul George talks with Pacers and Nuggets

Despite not having a general manager, it sounds like the Cleveland Cavaliers are still busy in their pursuit of Paul George.

According to Marc Stein, the Cleveland Cavaliers have discussed a three-way trade between the Denver Nuggets and the Indiana Pacers that would sent Kevin Love to Denver, and Paul George to the Cavs.

According to Chris Haynes, one version of the trade may include Kenneth Faried headed to Cleveland in the deal.

It seemed as though the George talks would go away for the Cavs after the draft as most of the proposed scenarios involved a draft pick from a third team. However the Nuggets have lots of young talent and have struggled to attract players of Love’s caliber in free agency. They also want to win now.

This is a scenario that could make a lot of sense if the Pacers are happy with what the Nuggets are offering them. On draft night it was reported that the Boston Celtics were unwilling to part with their third overall pick, or their Nets or Lakers pick from next season in a deal for Jimmy Butler. Assuming those assets are still off the table or are still overvalued, it would mean any potential offer would likely be viewed as less than sufficient.

If Love does end up getting moved this summer, it would be a little sad to see him go. He adapted his game to make things work in Cleveland and was a huge part of the success they’ve had. Seeing him wind up in Denver, rather than a less attractive location would help soften that blow. He and Nikola Jokic would be a dynamic pairing together surrounded by a good young team that is headed in the right direction.

Nothing is set in stone now, but it’s interesting to see that the Cavs are still in trade talks without a general manager. Should this deal go through, it’s possible that Koby Altman may go from acting general manager to the full-time gig under Chauncey Billups, if he accepts the job.