The Cleveland Cavaliers are continuously being linked to several players in recent trade rumors, as they are expected to make a deal before the deadline. In the event that the Cavaliers pull the trigger on a deal, Derrick Rose might find himself changing uniforms again this season. Rose, who was slowed down by an ankle injury this season, recently returned to active duty for the Cavaliers. But, with Cleveland looking to improve their title chances this season, they might include Rose in possible trades heading into the Feb. 8 deadline.
Derrick Rose to the Sacramento Kings?
The Cavaliers are eyeing a trade for Sacramento Kings guard George Hill, Shams Charania of Yahoo Sports reported. Cleveland is reportedly looking to utilize the veteran in a dual-guard role – either as a starter in place of JR Smith or as one of their main options off the bench.
The 31-year-old guard, who signed a three-year deal worth $57 million with the Kings, is averaging 10.5 points on top of 3.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists this season for Sacramento. While his numbers are decent, the nine-year veteran is not expected to get more playing time, as the Kings have shifted their focus on developing their young players. In turn, the Kings are expected to move the Indianapolis native heading into the deadline.
According to Amico Hoops, the Cavaliers might send Rose to Sacramento along with Iman Shumpert and Channing Frye.
Getting Rose is a low-risk, high-reward move for Sacramento in the event that they agree to a deal. The 2011 NBA Most Valuable Player could become a vital factor moving forward. But, if he fails to make an impact, the Kings could just let him go after the season, as Rose is set to become a free agent in the offseason.
Cleveland Cavaliers interested in Lou Williams
Meanwhile, Cleveland’s pursuit of Hill will likely end if they successfully nab another high-scoring guard in the coming days. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Cavaliers are also interested in acquiring Los Angeles Clippers guard Lou Williams. The Cavaliers have reportedly reached out to the Clippers about a possible deal for Williams.
Smith and do-it-all forward Tristan Thompson were reportedly part of the trade package offered to the Clippers, who also received an offer from Cleveland for DeAndre Jordan. Williams is having a productive season, averaging 23.2 points and 5.0 assists per game for the Clippers. The 31-year-old guard will become a free agent after the 2017-18 NBA season.
