NBA rumors: ESPN concocts 4-team trade to get Cooper Flagg to Cavs
The Cleveland Cavaliers had one of their best seasons in franchise history, but were not able to show for it in the postseason after losing to the Indiana Pacers in the second round. After being healthy for most – if not all – the regular season, injuries crept up on them late in the first round and early into their matchup against the Pacers. Now, the goal should be that they keep their core group together while filling out the depth surrounding them.
There is also a world where the Cavs could decide to shake things up and make some major changes to their roster. If the Cavs think that they can get better and the Pacers made them see their flaws, ESPN’s Kevin Pelton came up with a trade scenario where the Dallas Mavericks get Donovan Mitchell, the Los Angeles Lakers get Jarrett Allen, and Cleveland gets the No.1 pick.
In this scenario, the Cavs could possibly have a big three of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and possibly Cooper Flag, if they select him with the No. 1 pick.
“Cleveland builds a new trio of stars with Flagg, Mobley and Darius Garland, none of them older than age 25,” Pelton wrote. “For now, the Cavaliers should be able to remain competitive in the East thanks to depth and defense. A frontcourt of Flagg, Mobley and either Gafford or Washington would be one of the NBA’s best on defense, while sliding Max Strus to guard would give Cleveland more size in the backcourt.
Is it possible the Cavs might part ways with their core group?
It’s highly unlikely that the Cavs will make major changes to their roster, especially considering how well they performed this season. Had they been completely healthy, their outcome might have been even better. They seem to have built something promising with their current core group.
Their bench also looks strong, with players like De’Andre Hunter and Ty Jerome enjoying career-best seasons. At most, Cleveland might consider adding one or two new pieces to the rotation, but sticking with the same group wouldn’t be a bad option either.
The Eastern Conference could be wide open again next year. The Celtics are expected to look different, and depending on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation, the Bucks might too. With how the Pacers proved anything can happen, the Cavs could be in a strong position to contend once again.
