The Cleveland Cavaliers have lost four consecutive games and they clearly need help if they want to beat the Golden State Warriors this season. The Warriors clearly proved on Monday that they are the better team, which might finally force the Cavaliers to pull the trigger and make trades before the deadline.
Paul George joining LeBron James in Cleveland?
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Cavaliers will certainly make a deal or two before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. They are currently being linked to several marquee players, including Paul George, DeMarcus Cousins, and DeAndre Jordan.
Trading for Cousins or Jordan will solve Cleveland’s frontline woes. However, if they are to meet the Warriors again in the finals, getting George from the Oklahoma City Thunder makes more sense for Cleveland.
Why trading for George will give Cavs a better shot at winning the title
The Warriors and the Cavaliers are expected to meet again in the finals this season, barring any major injuries to key players. According to Amico Hoops, a 3-and-D player like George will be a bigger factor for Cleveland than a rim protector like Jordan in another potential showdown with Golden State in June.
George could take on Kevin Durant as well on the defensive end, while also giving the Cavaliers another scoring threat.
The superstar forward could also fit in seamlessly in the starting lineup with James, Kevin Love, Isaiah Thomas and JR Smith.
Adding George to the starting lineup will move Jae Crowder to the second unit, which could do more good than harm for the Cavaliers. Crowder has been struggling to find his niche in the starting lineup this season, and a move to the second unit could help him find his mark in Cleveland.
George is averaging 20.6 points to go along with 5.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. His numbers this season are lower than his averages last year, but it should be noted that the former Fresno State standout is playing alongside fellow superstars Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony.
However, acquiring George will be easier said than done for the Cavaliers.
Cleveland might be forced to give up costly assets, which is risky, considering the fact that the 27-year-old can walk away as an unrestricted free agent after the 2017-18 NBA season.
The Cavaliers are reportedly offering Tristan Thompson in trade talks, but the Thunder are expected to ask for additional assets. The Cavaliers have future first-round picks to offer, including the 2018 first-round pick of the Brooklyn Nets, which is expected to land in the lottery.
