In the past few days, there are rumors that the Cleveland Cavaliers are already looking to trade the 2018 first-rounder they acquired from the Boston Celtics. The pick, which originally belonged to the Brooklyn Nets, was part of the package deal the Celtics shipped to Cleveland for point guard Kyrie Irving.
One of the potential trade targets for the Cavs is New Orleans Pelicans center, DeMarcus Cousins. However, a report by Fear the Sword suggested that trading next year's first-round pick for the big man is not a "smart move" for last season's runners-up.
There are several reasons why Fear the Sword believes the Cavaliers should not use the 2018 first-round pick as a trade asset to acquire Cousins. First, is his contract, that is set to expire after the 2017-18 NBA season. Once this happens, he is going to be an unrestricted free agent, who is expected to demand a max contract.
Second, the pick could be utilized by the Cavs to add a young talent next year who may be the next big thing. Third, Cousins is arguably the best center in the league right now, though he is infamous for his immaturity and hot-headedness. These resulted in numerous technical fouls in the past.
Second, the pick could be utilized by the Cavs to add a young talent next year who may be the next big thing.
Third, Cousins is arguably the best center in the league right now, though he is infamous for his immaturity and hot-headedness. These resulted in numerous technical fouls in the past.
Cousins a boost
If the Cavaliers pursue and succeed in landing Cousins, he is going to be an improvement at center. Despite the possibility that his stint in Cleveland lasts for just one season.
In the 2016-17 season, the 27-year-old was consistent even if he had to split time with the Sacramento Kings and the Pelicans. He averaged 27.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks per outing.
Tristan Thompson leads the way
Cleveland will likely be fine at center without Cousins. The Cavaliers have a quality group of players at the No.
5 position led by their longtime starter, Tristan Thompson. The numbers of the 26-year-old Canadian are distant from Cousins', but he has played well for the Cavs. Perhaps the only issue with him is his inconsistency, especially in last season's NBA Finals.
Thompson's backups heading into the new season are Edy Tavares and Ante Zizic. The latter was one of the players Cleveland got in the deal with the Celtics. Aside from the three, Cleveland has the veteran Channing Frye. The 34-year-old will see action as a power forward in the new season, but he could take the duties of a center at times. Frye provides experience at the position and versatility since he is an excellent outside shooter.
The latter was one of the players Cleveland got in the deal with the Celtics.
Aside from the three, Cleveland has the veteran Channing Frye. The 34-year-old will see action as a power forward in the new season, but he could take the duties of a center at times. Frye provides experience at the position and versatility since he is an excellent outside shooter.
