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The Kyle Korver-Jerryd Bayless trade that the Cavs and 76ers have reportedly discussed doesn’t sound like it’s close to happening.
According to The New York Times’ Marc Stein, a Korver-Bayless swap is “possible,” but “far from certain.”
A trade sending Cleveland's Kyle Korver to Philadelphia in exchange for Jerryd Bayless is "possible" but also "far from certain," according to one league source briefed on the talks.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) July 20, 2018
The sharpshooting Korver has two years left on his contract at more than $15 million; Bayless has just one season left on his current deal at $8.6 million. @PompeyOnSixers first reported Philly's interest in Korver https://t.co/nqZ8aAJdLE
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) July 20, 2018
Korver, 37, has two years left on his deal with the second year only partially guaranteed. Bayless, 29, is in the last year of his contract and will make $8.6 million this season.
Basketball wise, this is not a deal that actually makes sense for the Cavs. Bayless is a guard and the Cavs are already full there. First round pick Collin Sexton, George Hill, Jordan Clarkson, Cedi Osman and Rodney Hood (assuming the Cavs keep him) all need minutes at the one or two spot. Adding another guard into the mix really doesn’t help the Cavs. Korver is also a positive locker room presence — not that Bayless isn’t — and has helped many teammates improve their shot.
This deal, though, could make sense if the Cavs get assets back in return, perhaps some second round picks, a highly-protected first that turns into second-round picks and/or peripheral young players on the 76ers’ roster. Taking on Bayless would also give Cleveland more cap space to work with next summer when most of the league will be flux with cash.