The Cleveland Cavaliers are slowly finding their groove again after winning their last two games. However, the Cavs are still expected to be active on the trade front heading into the trade deadline, knowing that they need to make moves to improve their title chances. The Cavaliers are being linked to several players expected to be traded before the Feb. 8 deadline. Among the players linked to the Cavaliers, King James Gospel tagged Marc Gasol as the perfect trade target for the Cavs.
Why should Cleveland trade for Marc Gasol?
Gasol is having a solid season, averaging 17.9 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.
However, the Memphis Grizzlies are not expected to make the playoffs with Mike Conley down with an injury. The Grizzlies might eventually decide to part ways with the nine-year veteran, and, if Memphis decides to trade the 33-year-old center, who is playing in the third season of his five-year, $113.21 million contract, the Cavaliers should make a run at him.
Gasol would bring a solid inside presence to the Cavaliers on both ends of the floor. The 2013 NBA Defensive Player of the Year has also developed decent three-point shooting, which could make him a good fit in terms of what Cleveland is running on the offensive end of the floor.
Most fans are expecting another NBA Finals rematch between the Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors.
Acquiring Gasol will give the Cavaliers a center who can dominate down low. Golden State is known for utilizing a small lineup without a real center on the floor.
Who should they give up in a trade for Marc Gasol?
The Grizzlies are expected to ask for quality players along with draft picks in exchange for Gasol. However, the Cavaliers do not have a lot of attractive trade assets at this point.
Cleveland could offer Tristan Thompson along with their future first-round picks. Adding rookie Cedi Osman to any trade package could also do the trick for the reigning Eastern Conference champions.
The Brooklyn Nets' 2018 first-round pick is expected to be mentioned in any trade talks involving the Cavaliers. However, Cleveland has remained firm on their stance and will likely keep the coveted pick.
In the first place, giving up a draft pick that could land in the Top 5 does not make sense if it will be for a player past his prime despite still having the ability to contribute significantly. The Cavaliers would rather invest in a future player, knowing that LeBron James might also bolt this summer if the gamble to make a deal does not pay off.
