February 19, 2009 - 3:00 PM. That is the date of the 2009 NBA Trading Deadline. As you can tell, it is only a month and a half away. We are getting closer and closer each day, and starting in mid-January until the deadline, many teams will look to make trades to either improve their team for the playoffs, or start to rebuild their team. Well, this topic will look at the potential Home Run players that may be available.
The term Home Run, what does it mean? No, I'm not talking about a baseball player hitting a ball over the fence, I'm talking about a basketball player who is refered to as a home run. Cavs beat reporter Brian Windhorst always uses that word when he refers to what the Cavs will trade for. A home run player is a player who can change the Cavs from a great team now to being favorites for the playoffs for this year, and years to come. If we can't find this player, I highly doubt the Cavs will make a desperation move for a player like Corey Maggette, but rather head into the playoffs with our current team. We will still be an elite team, but will have a tough time against teams like Boston, Orlando, and Los Angeles (the Lakers). Don't get me wrong, we can beat those teams with our current roster, but it would not be tough for them to upset us, or if Mo, LeBron, or Z have an off game, it will really cost us. With a big trade, it will be extremely tough for a team to upset us.
Towards the deadline, when the Cavs are looking for a team to trade with, we should explore all options, and try our best to stay away from trading core guys, and young guys. That means Mo, Delonte, LeBron, Z, Boobie, Andy, JJ, and Darnell are close to untouchable, but if we need to include them for a big trade, we can open up Andy, Darnell, and possibly even Delonte, Boobie, and JJ. But, what I'm sure the Cavs will be looking for is a deal similar to the Damon and Joe for Mo deal. Expirings for a great player. That means that we are not only looking for a homer run player, but a home run deal.
With that all said now, let's look at some home run players who may become available around the deadline:
Rip Hamilton, Detroit Pistons
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG, who has been playing some SF this season.
Age: 30 (2/14/78)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Makes scoring look easy... Deadly mid-range jumper... Very quick coming off screens... Endless energy... Excellent ballhandling skills... Great finisher in the open court... A good three-point shooter too now... Very thin... Good defender.
Injury History: Little. He has played in atleast 72 games each season since 01-02.
Why He Could Become Available: He and Iverson doesn't go well togethor. If Detroit starts losing again, Rip is probably the most likely to go since he has the longest contract on the team, and they aren't a championshi team. I'm not sure how thrilled Pistons GM Joe Dumars would be trading Rip to the Cavs, but if a deal revolving around Rip for Wally came up, the Pistons would be set to have $55 mil. worth of expiring contracts, and would be $41 mil. under the cap, for room to sign a few free agents to start a new Pistons team.
Role with Cavs: His role with the Cavs is similar to his role with the old Pistons. Play gritty defense, give great leadership, show the Cavs a new secret weapon with the pick and pop (one of the best pick and poppers in the history of the NBA), and hit the open J. He is a guy that defenses will have to watch since he moves without the ball well, and that will free up other players (LeBron, and sometimes Mo and Z) from double-teams.
Contract Info:
Vince Carter, New Jersey Nets
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG.
Age: 31 (1/26/77)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: One of the most spectacular players in the NBA... Simply unbelievable leaping skills... The best dunker ever, but obviously not only a dunker... Very creative scorer... His jumper has constantly improved over the years... A lot of finesse... Doesn't need to play his best to score 20-plus points per contest... Has good rebounding ability... Should attack the basket more... Doesn't put much effort on defense... Injury prone.
Injury History: Has played atleast 73 games throughout each of the past five seasons, but he has a history of weak knees, though he hasn't showed it much this season.
Why He Could Become Available: Right now, the Nets are winning. How long can that keep up? Everyone knows that there goal is cap space for 2010, and with Vince having a big/long contract, he is most likely out of there very soon, for either an expiring (with a pick or two), or a young piece (if they can get that).
Role with Cavs: Bring in a new dimension of scoring. Though Vince is aging, he can still leap up, and make some unbelievable dunks. Alley Oops all day to Vince and LeBron.
Contract Info:
Michael Redd, Milwaukee Bucks
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG.
Age: 29 (8/24/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great scorer... One of the best shooters in the league... A really big threat beyond the arc... Beautiful shooting mechanic... Very quick release... Quite explosive... Doesn't pass the ball much.
Injury History: Little. Since 02-03 Redd has played in less than 72 games only once.
Why He Could Become Available: Milwaukee currently sits in the 8th seed, and like most teams, if they are not looking like they will be a playoff team by the deadline, they will look to trade their big contracts of older players. That would mean either him or Redd.
Role with Cavs: Shoot the lights out! I'm not sure I want to recreate Milwaukee's old backcourt, but it may be better in Cleveland, because we have better coaching, and both Redd and Mo will be playing off the ball unlike what they did in Milwaukee. But Redd will be getting a ton of open shots, which is great for the best shooter in the league. Redd may take more to get than just Wally and a pick, though.
Contract Info:
Richard Jefferson, Milwaukee Bucks
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (6/21/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: An athletic freak... Has clearly improved his ballhandling and shooting skills... Can shoot over his defender... Looks great driving to the basket... Extremely good in the open court... Very active defender... Has guts... Not a consistent three-point shooter.
Injury History: In his 7 year career, he has had five years of 78+ games, and two of 55 or less games.
Why He Could Become Available: Again, if Milwaukee doesn't appear to be in the playoffs, they will look to trade one of their big contracts.
Role with Cavs: Defend well, and give us another scoring option.
Contract Info:
Luol Deng, Chicago Bulls
STATS
Height: 6'9" SF/PF.
Age: 23 (4/16/85)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great versatility... Good scoring and passing skills... Can put the ball on the floor... Good mid-range game... High basketball IQ... Pretty athletic... Very long... Plays with good attitude... Not a great three-point shooter...
Injury History: Nothing major, but in his 4 year career, he has played two seasons of 78 or more games, and two seasons of between 61-63 games.
Why He Could Become Available: Chicago isn't very good, and there only piece for the future is Rose. Deng doesn't fit in well there, and there coach doesn't know how to use Deng properly. It may take a three-way to bring him here, but since he has such a big contract, Chicago may just accept an expiring with a pick and/or Darnell.
Role with Cavs: Knock down his pattented mid-range jumper, play solid defense, drive to the hole, and use his quickness to his advantage in the post.
Contract Info:
Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia 76ers
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG/SF.
Age: 24 (1/28/84)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Outstanding athlete... Very long... Very strong... Good rebounding and passing skills... Handles the ball well... Quick hands... Shaky jump shot... Turnover prone.
Injury History: None. He has missed just 6 games in his 5th season in the NBA.
Why He Could Become Available: This may be a bad time to ask for AI2 since he is just starting to get out of his groove, but the Sixers are still 6 games below .500, and not in the playoffs. Sixers fans claim that Iguodala is "stealing money" since he is not playing up to his contract, and it sounds like they may be ready for a trade. I am 95% sure Philadelphia will want more than just expirings for him, but I was also 95% sure that Memphis would not trade Pau Gasol last season unless a great deal came up. Three-way trades are great, too.
Role with Cavs: Before, most people were unsure about if we should get Iguodala because of how he was struggling playing the SG. Well, he has picked up the slack, and really figured it out. His role would be to drive, score, defend, and be LeBrons side-kick for years to come.
Contract Info:
Elton Brand, Philadelphia 76ers
STATS
Height: 6'9" PF.
Age: 29 (3/11/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Undersized to play the power forward position, but one of the best rebounders in the league anyway... Very good scorer... Good moves... Uses his wide body like very few others... Very strong... Very good timing to block shots... Looking a lot slower after the injury.
Injury History: Little, besides an injury last season that caused him to miss all but 8 games of the season.
Why He Could Become Available: Again, Philadelphia keeps losing, and aren't looking like a playoff team. They may want more than an expiring for him, and I'm not sure what out of our core of guys I would give up for him considering how slow he is, and how unmotivated he seems. Again, three-way trades are nice, so we won't have to give up a core piece for him.
Role with Cavs: Work in the post, block shots, and rebound.
Contract Info:
Chris Bosh, Toronto Raptors
STATS
Height: 6'11" PF, who can play some C.
Age: 24 (3/24/84)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Really talented offensive player... Very good moves... Can score in the low post and from mid-range... Has developed a sweet shooting touch from the perimeter... Has range up to three-point land, in fact... Great mobility for his size... Great first step... Very long... Quite an athlete... Runs the floor like a deer... Pretty good rebounding skills... Not very strong... Average defensive player... One of the best big men in the league.
Injury History: Little. He has played in atleast 67 games every season of his career, which means maybe a minor injury here or there.
Why He Could Become Available: Toronto is very disappointing, and are not on pace to make the playoffs. Bosh hates to lose, and if he doesn't demand a trade, Toronto will know that he is most likely leaving in 2010 for a winning team. Mind as well get the most for him now. He will definately take several core pieces.
Role with Cavs: Be a leader, drive to the hoop, hit the open shot, play like the beast he is, and start a dynasty with LeBron (and Mo, and the rest of the guys).
Contract Info:
Mike Dunleavey Jr., Indiana Pacers
STATS
Height: 6'9" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (9/15/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Good fundamentals... Decent shooter and good passer... Nice ballhandling skills for his size... Plays smart... A little bit too slow... Very soft... Gets overpowered... Must be more consistent.
Injury History: Little. Besides this season (where he hasn't played one game), he hasn't had a season where he played less than 75 games.
Why He Could Become Available: Mike is definately a wait and see guy for both the Pacers to see if they want to trade him, and the Cavs to see if they want to trade for him. It depends how well he comes back from his injury. Indiana seems to really like TJ Ford and Danny Granger, so they may want to trade Dunleavey for some more youth. I'm not sure if something like Wally, a pick, and maybe Darnell for Dunleavey is something the Pacers would be interested in, but it all depends on there interests. The players still seem to think that they will make the playoffs.
Role with Cavs: Be another scorer. Dunleavey is a big guard, who is built similar to Kevin Durant (6'9", but aren't strong, and both play mostly SG). For all of you who wanted Mike Miller, Dunleavey is a much better scorer, rebounder, and passer than Miller, and his defense is no worse.
Contract Info:
Gerald Wallace, Charlotte Bobcats
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF/PF (extremely versatile).
Age: 26 (7/23/82)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: An athletic freak... One of the best dunkers in the league... Great first step... Very good in the open court... Very energetic... Good defensive player... One of the best rebounders at his position... Ballhandling skills and outside shot still need improvement.
Injury History: A lot. I didn't follow him when he played for the Kings, but I think he didn't play in many games because he wasn't good enough, but the way he plays, he is very injure prone. In his last four years with Charlotte, he has missed an average of 17 games per season.
Why He Could Become Available: He is probably available right now, actually. Charlotte sucks, and they are starting to rebuild, as you can tell, they already traded away there best player in Jason Richardson.
Role with Cavs: Defend (2 steals, 1 block per game, one of the best perimeter defenders in the league), rebound (8 RPG), be a momentum changer (like Trevor Ariza on the Lakers, Gerald is great at stealing the ball, then taking it on a fast-break, and slam a dunk), and drive to the hoop.
Contract Info:
Caron Butler, Washington Wizards
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (3/13/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great athleticism and physical strength... Likes to go to the hole... Rebounds well... Has a good post game... Quick hands... Good in the open court... Fine mid-range game... Has improved his ballhandling... Quite aggressive.
Injury History: Some. Missed 24 games last season, 19 the season before, and is currently injured, but besides that, not much.
Why He Could Become Available: The Wizards suck, and will be looking to deal all of there longer contracts. I have no doubt in my mind that the Wizards would be open to trading Caron, but would want more than just an expiring, and picks.
Role with Cavs: Be aggressive, drive, and defend (always one of the top players in steals per game).
Contract Info:
Antawn Jamison, Washington Wizards
STATS
Height: 6'9" SF/PF.
Age: 32 (6/12/76)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Can play both forward spots... Very good scorer... Knows how to get his buckets... A threat both in the low post and the perimeter... Pretty good rebounder... Not likely to pass the ball much... Plays little defense.
Injury History: In his last 8 seasons, he has played 5 seasons of all 82 games, two of 70+, and one of 68 games (which isn't even that bad).
Why He Could Become Available: He is most likely already available. The Wizards suck, and would love to get rid of him, and his decently large contract for his age (which they just gave him). He could be obtained with expirings.
Role with Cavs: Be a leader, and another scoring threat (people think that he is just another Al Harrington, or Wally Szczerbiak, but he is more than just a perimeter player, he can post up, and drive to the hoop, too).
Contract Info:
Josh Howard, Dallas Mavericks
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (4/28/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Good athleticism... Long arms... Very energetic... Good scoring skills... Can get to the basket... Great rebounder for his size... His jump shot looks better and better.
Injury History: Some. Missed 15 games his rookie season, 23 games his third season, and he already had a little injury this season.
Why He Could Become Available: I doubt it, but I won't say never until after the deadline. If you look at the Western Conference, they have 9 competetive teams. Though right now, Dallas is in 5th place in the West, but just 2 games in front of the 9th place Jazz, and you know they will make a run when they get healthy. He would be the one to go because Cuban loves Dirk and Kidd too much (plus, not many teams would give anything up for Kidd) and with Josh making his marijuana, and National Anthem comments, that just adds on to he being the one to go. Dallas will most likely want to make a deal so they can "win now" with Dirk and Kidd, so they will probably look for someone who can contribute now (like any of the players on this list) so we would have to get in a three-way deal to get Josh.
Role with Cavs: Bring energy, defend, and score in all the ways that he knows how.
Contract Info:
Carlos Boozer, Utah Jazz
STATS
Height: 6'9" PF.
Age: 27 (11/20/81)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Very strong on the boards... Chiseled upper body... Has a nice touch around the rim... Very effective hook shot... Reliable mid-range shot... Nice turnaround jumper... Very good hands... Will grab most passes... Much more athletic than advertised... Was more focused defensively before signing his big contract with the Jazz.
Injury History: Some. He had some problems his first two years in Utah, and this year he is getting surgery, but besides that, not much.
Why He Could Become Available: Boozer has been a distraction, saying that he will opt out of his contract, and now that he is getting surgery. I'm sure Utah's Front Office is getting nervous about Boozer just walking away from the Jazz for nothing. It has been said that the Jazz need to make a decision. They can re-sign either Paul Milsap or Carlos Boozer. Right now the younger Milsap seems like he may be the better (and cheaper) long-term option. Mind as well get something for Boozer. I'm not sure what Utah would trade him for, or how much a team would offer for Boozer, and I know that he lied to the Cavs a while ago, but as Brian Windhorst said, fans will be quick to forget what happened after Boozers first 20-10 night.
Role with Cavs: Be tough, score, rebound, get focused defensively.
Contract Info:
Stephen Jackson, Golden State Warriors
STATS
Height: 6'8" SG/SF.
Age: 30 (4/05/78)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Physically gifted player... Quite talented on the offensive end... Can get to the basket and hit the three-pointer consistently... Able to play some point... Very tough defensively... Very aggressive when he's into it... And he's usually into it lately... Long... Must improve decision-making... A hothead sometimes... Turnover prone... Has some baggage.
Injury History: Little. Has played in 73+ games each year except for in his second year in the NBA, and in 04-05, but that was because of his suspension.
Why He Could Become Available: Golden State is awful, need to start rebuilding, and erase there stupid mistake of giving Stephen a contract extension.
Role with Cavs: Be the leader Mike Brown knows he is, be aggressive offensively and defensively, play a good floor game.
Contract Info:
Chris Kaman, Los Angeles
STATS
Height: 7'0" C.
Age: 26 (4/28/82)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Very big and very active... Has above average athleticism and agility for his size... Runs the floor well... Skilled offensive player... Can score with both hands... Makes no mistake from the free-throw line... Has become a great rebounder... Low basketball IQ.
Injury History: Some. He missed 19 games during his second season, and 26 last season, and has been hurt for a lot of this season, but that's it.
Why He Could Become Available: The Clippers are a mess, they need to start somewhere. The only long-term piece on that team is Al Thornton. Besides him, they need to just get rid of everything. Kaman appears to be the odd man out, since the Clippers have 3 big men who can play 35 MPG.
Role with Cavs: Bring energy, rebound, block shots, use his skills offensively.
Contract Info:
Marcus Camby, Los Angeles Clippers
STATS
Height: 6'11" PF/C.
Age: 34 (3/22/74)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Outstanding defensive player... Excellent shot blocker coming from the weak side... Great rebounding skills... You won't see many guys that tall running the floor the way he does... Can score in the open court and after getting the offensive rebound... Able to hit the occasional mid-range shot... Not a lot of low-post moves... A lot of heart.
Injury History: A lot. In his 12 year career, he has only played in atleast 70 games three seasons.
Why He Could Become Available: Again, the Clippers are a mess. Camby is probably unhappy, and may demand a trade to a winning team. The Cavs would definately be interested. I would not give up a core piece for him, though.
Role with Cavs: Defend, block shots, rebound, give us a solid 10 PPG.
Contract Info:
Mike Miller, Minnesota Timberwolves
STATS
Height: 6'8" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (2/19/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great shooter... Good ballhandling skills... Physically gifted player... Good bulk and long arms... Runs the floor well... A great offensive weapon... Can play some point.
Injury History: Little. Never played less than 60 games, and has played atleast 70 games each of the past seasons since 03-04.
Why He Could Become Available: Minnesota is already rebuilding. There have been some reports that Miller would be available for youth, but most likely, he could be available for just an expiring.
Role with Cavs: Shoot the lights out, be a leader.
Contract Info:
John Salmons, Sacramento Kings
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG/SF.
Age: 29 (12/12/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Extremely versatile... High basketball IQ... Does a little bit of everything, but is not great at anything... Not an athletic freak... Jump shot needs work.
Injury History: Very little. Missed 24 games one season, but besides that, not much.
Why He Could Become Available: Sacramento is not good, and are ready to rebuild.
Role with Cavs: Be another scoring threat, as his scouting report says, do a little bit of everything, be an energizer.
Contract Info:
Tracy McGrady, Houston Rockets
STATS
Height: 6'8" SG/SF.
Age: 29 (5/24/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Impressive scorer... Great coordination and quickness... Long arms... Above average ballhandling skills... Can drive to the basket or shoot the ball... Has three-point shooting range... Goes to the line very often... Will post good rebounding numbers... Good vision of the court... Tends to settle for jump shots now more often than in the past... Injury prone... Plays older than his age.
Injury History: Yes. He is an injury prone player, and misses his share of games. Yao is rumored to be sick of it (see below).
Why He Could Become Available: Yao is the franchise, no doubt. If he wants him gone, they will look to trade him. They probably want someone who is not injury prone, but still a very good player. They AREN'T rebuilding!
Role with Cavs: Score like he knows how, play solid all-around, get pumped to play for a championship team.
Contract Info:
That is just proving that there will be quite a few very good options available to us at the deadline. If we don't like any of the offers that we get, we don't even need to make a trade. However, don't just think that these home run players are our only options. There are quite a few other players who may be available, such as Travis Outlaw, Brad Miller, Lamar Odum, Shawn Marion, JR Smith, Samuel Dalembert, David Lee, Charlie Villanueva, Chris Wilcox, Martell Webster, or Shane Battier, or maybe there can even be a few surprise home run players that open up along the way (like Pau Gasol last season).
Also, I would like to thank Hoopshype for the salary info and scouting reports, as well as NBA.com for the pictures, and stats.
Thoughts? What options do you like? Dislike?
EDIT: Just a heads up, I will update this topic whenever I need to. I already added two new players to the list after originally posted (Mike Miller & Tracy McGrady) and I can add as many as I want. Just let me know if I missed one, or possibly if more rumors come up that a new 'home run' player is available I will add them, too. I will also cross of names as they are traded around the deadline.
The term Home Run, what does it mean? No, I'm not talking about a baseball player hitting a ball over the fence, I'm talking about a basketball player who is refered to as a home run. Cavs beat reporter Brian Windhorst always uses that word when he refers to what the Cavs will trade for. A home run player is a player who can change the Cavs from a great team now to being favorites for the playoffs for this year, and years to come. If we can't find this player, I highly doubt the Cavs will make a desperation move for a player like Corey Maggette, but rather head into the playoffs with our current team. We will still be an elite team, but will have a tough time against teams like Boston, Orlando, and Los Angeles (the Lakers). Don't get me wrong, we can beat those teams with our current roster, but it would not be tough for them to upset us, or if Mo, LeBron, or Z have an off game, it will really cost us. With a big trade, it will be extremely tough for a team to upset us.
Towards the deadline, when the Cavs are looking for a team to trade with, we should explore all options, and try our best to stay away from trading core guys, and young guys. That means Mo, Delonte, LeBron, Z, Boobie, Andy, JJ, and Darnell are close to untouchable, but if we need to include them for a big trade, we can open up Andy, Darnell, and possibly even Delonte, Boobie, and JJ. But, what I'm sure the Cavs will be looking for is a deal similar to the Damon and Joe for Mo deal. Expirings for a great player. That means that we are not only looking for a homer run player, but a home run deal.
With that all said now, let's look at some home run players who may become available around the deadline:
Rip Hamilton, Detroit Pistons
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG, who has been playing some SF this season.
Age: 30 (2/14/78)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Makes scoring look easy... Deadly mid-range jumper... Very quick coming off screens... Endless energy... Excellent ballhandling skills... Great finisher in the open court... A good three-point shooter too now... Very thin... Good defender.
Injury History: Little. He has played in atleast 72 games each season since 01-02.
Why He Could Become Available: He and Iverson doesn't go well togethor. If Detroit starts losing again, Rip is probably the most likely to go since he has the longest contract on the team, and they aren't a championshi team. I'm not sure how thrilled Pistons GM Joe Dumars would be trading Rip to the Cavs, but if a deal revolving around Rip for Wally came up, the Pistons would be set to have $55 mil. worth of expiring contracts, and would be $41 mil. under the cap, for room to sign a few free agents to start a new Pistons team.
Role with Cavs: His role with the Cavs is similar to his role with the old Pistons. Play gritty defense, give great leadership, show the Cavs a new secret weapon with the pick and pop (one of the best pick and poppers in the history of the NBA), and hit the open J. He is a guy that defenses will have to watch since he moves without the ball well, and that will free up other players (LeBron, and sometimes Mo and Z) from double-teams.
Contract Info:
Vince Carter, New Jersey Nets
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG.
Age: 31 (1/26/77)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: One of the most spectacular players in the NBA... Simply unbelievable leaping skills... The best dunker ever, but obviously not only a dunker... Very creative scorer... His jumper has constantly improved over the years... A lot of finesse... Doesn't need to play his best to score 20-plus points per contest... Has good rebounding ability... Should attack the basket more... Doesn't put much effort on defense... Injury prone.
Injury History: Has played atleast 73 games throughout each of the past five seasons, but he has a history of weak knees, though he hasn't showed it much this season.
Why He Could Become Available: Right now, the Nets are winning. How long can that keep up? Everyone knows that there goal is cap space for 2010, and with Vince having a big/long contract, he is most likely out of there very soon, for either an expiring (with a pick or two), or a young piece (if they can get that).
Role with Cavs: Bring in a new dimension of scoring. Though Vince is aging, he can still leap up, and make some unbelievable dunks. Alley Oops all day to Vince and LeBron.
Contract Info:
Michael Redd, Milwaukee Bucks
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG.
Age: 29 (8/24/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great scorer... One of the best shooters in the league... A really big threat beyond the arc... Beautiful shooting mechanic... Very quick release... Quite explosive... Doesn't pass the ball much.
Injury History: Little. Since 02-03 Redd has played in less than 72 games only once.
Why He Could Become Available: Milwaukee currently sits in the 8th seed, and like most teams, if they are not looking like they will be a playoff team by the deadline, they will look to trade their big contracts of older players. That would mean either him or Redd.
Role with Cavs: Shoot the lights out! I'm not sure I want to recreate Milwaukee's old backcourt, but it may be better in Cleveland, because we have better coaching, and both Redd and Mo will be playing off the ball unlike what they did in Milwaukee. But Redd will be getting a ton of open shots, which is great for the best shooter in the league. Redd may take more to get than just Wally and a pick, though.
Contract Info:
Richard Jefferson, Milwaukee Bucks
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (6/21/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: An athletic freak... Has clearly improved his ballhandling and shooting skills... Can shoot over his defender... Looks great driving to the basket... Extremely good in the open court... Very active defender... Has guts... Not a consistent three-point shooter.
Injury History: In his 7 year career, he has had five years of 78+ games, and two of 55 or less games.
Why He Could Become Available: Again, if Milwaukee doesn't appear to be in the playoffs, they will look to trade one of their big contracts.
Role with Cavs: Defend well, and give us another scoring option.
Contract Info:
Luol Deng, Chicago Bulls
STATS
Height: 6'9" SF/PF.
Age: 23 (4/16/85)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great versatility... Good scoring and passing skills... Can put the ball on the floor... Good mid-range game... High basketball IQ... Pretty athletic... Very long... Plays with good attitude... Not a great three-point shooter...
Injury History: Nothing major, but in his 4 year career, he has played two seasons of 78 or more games, and two seasons of between 61-63 games.
Why He Could Become Available: Chicago isn't very good, and there only piece for the future is Rose. Deng doesn't fit in well there, and there coach doesn't know how to use Deng properly. It may take a three-way to bring him here, but since he has such a big contract, Chicago may just accept an expiring with a pick and/or Darnell.
Role with Cavs: Knock down his pattented mid-range jumper, play solid defense, drive to the hole, and use his quickness to his advantage in the post.
Contract Info:
Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia 76ers
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG/SF.
Age: 24 (1/28/84)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Outstanding athlete... Very long... Very strong... Good rebounding and passing skills... Handles the ball well... Quick hands... Shaky jump shot... Turnover prone.
Injury History: None. He has missed just 6 games in his 5th season in the NBA.
Why He Could Become Available: This may be a bad time to ask for AI2 since he is just starting to get out of his groove, but the Sixers are still 6 games below .500, and not in the playoffs. Sixers fans claim that Iguodala is "stealing money" since he is not playing up to his contract, and it sounds like they may be ready for a trade. I am 95% sure Philadelphia will want more than just expirings for him, but I was also 95% sure that Memphis would not trade Pau Gasol last season unless a great deal came up. Three-way trades are great, too.
Role with Cavs: Before, most people were unsure about if we should get Iguodala because of how he was struggling playing the SG. Well, he has picked up the slack, and really figured it out. His role would be to drive, score, defend, and be LeBrons side-kick for years to come.
Contract Info:
Elton Brand, Philadelphia 76ers
STATS
Height: 6'9" PF.
Age: 29 (3/11/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Undersized to play the power forward position, but one of the best rebounders in the league anyway... Very good scorer... Good moves... Uses his wide body like very few others... Very strong... Very good timing to block shots... Looking a lot slower after the injury.
Injury History: Little, besides an injury last season that caused him to miss all but 8 games of the season.
Why He Could Become Available: Again, Philadelphia keeps losing, and aren't looking like a playoff team. They may want more than an expiring for him, and I'm not sure what out of our core of guys I would give up for him considering how slow he is, and how unmotivated he seems. Again, three-way trades are nice, so we won't have to give up a core piece for him.
Role with Cavs: Work in the post, block shots, and rebound.
Contract Info:
Chris Bosh, Toronto Raptors
STATS
Height: 6'11" PF, who can play some C.
Age: 24 (3/24/84)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Really talented offensive player... Very good moves... Can score in the low post and from mid-range... Has developed a sweet shooting touch from the perimeter... Has range up to three-point land, in fact... Great mobility for his size... Great first step... Very long... Quite an athlete... Runs the floor like a deer... Pretty good rebounding skills... Not very strong... Average defensive player... One of the best big men in the league.
Injury History: Little. He has played in atleast 67 games every season of his career, which means maybe a minor injury here or there.
Why He Could Become Available: Toronto is very disappointing, and are not on pace to make the playoffs. Bosh hates to lose, and if he doesn't demand a trade, Toronto will know that he is most likely leaving in 2010 for a winning team. Mind as well get the most for him now. He will definately take several core pieces.
Role with Cavs: Be a leader, drive to the hoop, hit the open shot, play like the beast he is, and start a dynasty with LeBron (and Mo, and the rest of the guys).
Contract Info:
Mike Dunleavey Jr., Indiana Pacers
STATS
Height: 6'9" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (9/15/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Good fundamentals... Decent shooter and good passer... Nice ballhandling skills for his size... Plays smart... A little bit too slow... Very soft... Gets overpowered... Must be more consistent.
Injury History: Little. Besides this season (where he hasn't played one game), he hasn't had a season where he played less than 75 games.
Why He Could Become Available: Mike is definately a wait and see guy for both the Pacers to see if they want to trade him, and the Cavs to see if they want to trade for him. It depends how well he comes back from his injury. Indiana seems to really like TJ Ford and Danny Granger, so they may want to trade Dunleavey for some more youth. I'm not sure if something like Wally, a pick, and maybe Darnell for Dunleavey is something the Pacers would be interested in, but it all depends on there interests. The players still seem to think that they will make the playoffs.
Role with Cavs: Be another scorer. Dunleavey is a big guard, who is built similar to Kevin Durant (6'9", but aren't strong, and both play mostly SG). For all of you who wanted Mike Miller, Dunleavey is a much better scorer, rebounder, and passer than Miller, and his defense is no worse.
Contract Info:
Gerald Wallace, Charlotte Bobcats
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF/PF (extremely versatile).
Age: 26 (7/23/82)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: An athletic freak... One of the best dunkers in the league... Great first step... Very good in the open court... Very energetic... Good defensive player... One of the best rebounders at his position... Ballhandling skills and outside shot still need improvement.
Injury History: A lot. I didn't follow him when he played for the Kings, but I think he didn't play in many games because he wasn't good enough, but the way he plays, he is very injure prone. In his last four years with Charlotte, he has missed an average of 17 games per season.
Why He Could Become Available: He is probably available right now, actually. Charlotte sucks, and they are starting to rebuild, as you can tell, they already traded away there best player in Jason Richardson.
Role with Cavs: Defend (2 steals, 1 block per game, one of the best perimeter defenders in the league), rebound (8 RPG), be a momentum changer (like Trevor Ariza on the Lakers, Gerald is great at stealing the ball, then taking it on a fast-break, and slam a dunk), and drive to the hoop.
Contract Info:
Caron Butler, Washington Wizards
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (3/13/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great athleticism and physical strength... Likes to go to the hole... Rebounds well... Has a good post game... Quick hands... Good in the open court... Fine mid-range game... Has improved his ballhandling... Quite aggressive.
Injury History: Some. Missed 24 games last season, 19 the season before, and is currently injured, but besides that, not much.
Why He Could Become Available: The Wizards suck, and will be looking to deal all of there longer contracts. I have no doubt in my mind that the Wizards would be open to trading Caron, but would want more than just an expiring, and picks.
Role with Cavs: Be aggressive, drive, and defend (always one of the top players in steals per game).
Contract Info:
Antawn Jamison, Washington Wizards
STATS
Height: 6'9" SF/PF.
Age: 32 (6/12/76)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Can play both forward spots... Very good scorer... Knows how to get his buckets... A threat both in the low post and the perimeter... Pretty good rebounder... Not likely to pass the ball much... Plays little defense.
Injury History: In his last 8 seasons, he has played 5 seasons of all 82 games, two of 70+, and one of 68 games (which isn't even that bad).
Why He Could Become Available: He is most likely already available. The Wizards suck, and would love to get rid of him, and his decently large contract for his age (which they just gave him). He could be obtained with expirings.
Role with Cavs: Be a leader, and another scoring threat (people think that he is just another Al Harrington, or Wally Szczerbiak, but he is more than just a perimeter player, he can post up, and drive to the hoop, too).
Contract Info:
Josh Howard, Dallas Mavericks
STATS
Height: 6'7" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (4/28/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Good athleticism... Long arms... Very energetic... Good scoring skills... Can get to the basket... Great rebounder for his size... His jump shot looks better and better.
Injury History: Some. Missed 15 games his rookie season, 23 games his third season, and he already had a little injury this season.
Why He Could Become Available: I doubt it, but I won't say never until after the deadline. If you look at the Western Conference, they have 9 competetive teams. Though right now, Dallas is in 5th place in the West, but just 2 games in front of the 9th place Jazz, and you know they will make a run when they get healthy. He would be the one to go because Cuban loves Dirk and Kidd too much (plus, not many teams would give anything up for Kidd) and with Josh making his marijuana, and National Anthem comments, that just adds on to he being the one to go. Dallas will most likely want to make a deal so they can "win now" with Dirk and Kidd, so they will probably look for someone who can contribute now (like any of the players on this list) so we would have to get in a three-way deal to get Josh.
Role with Cavs: Bring energy, defend, and score in all the ways that he knows how.
Contract Info:
Carlos Boozer, Utah Jazz
STATS
Height: 6'9" PF.
Age: 27 (11/20/81)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Very strong on the boards... Chiseled upper body... Has a nice touch around the rim... Very effective hook shot... Reliable mid-range shot... Nice turnaround jumper... Very good hands... Will grab most passes... Much more athletic than advertised... Was more focused defensively before signing his big contract with the Jazz.
Injury History: Some. He had some problems his first two years in Utah, and this year he is getting surgery, but besides that, not much.
Why He Could Become Available: Boozer has been a distraction, saying that he will opt out of his contract, and now that he is getting surgery. I'm sure Utah's Front Office is getting nervous about Boozer just walking away from the Jazz for nothing. It has been said that the Jazz need to make a decision. They can re-sign either Paul Milsap or Carlos Boozer. Right now the younger Milsap seems like he may be the better (and cheaper) long-term option. Mind as well get something for Boozer. I'm not sure what Utah would trade him for, or how much a team would offer for Boozer, and I know that he lied to the Cavs a while ago, but as Brian Windhorst said, fans will be quick to forget what happened after Boozers first 20-10 night.
Role with Cavs: Be tough, score, rebound, get focused defensively.
Contract Info:
Stephen Jackson, Golden State Warriors
STATS
Height: 6'8" SG/SF.
Age: 30 (4/05/78)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Physically gifted player... Quite talented on the offensive end... Can get to the basket and hit the three-pointer consistently... Able to play some point... Very tough defensively... Very aggressive when he's into it... And he's usually into it lately... Long... Must improve decision-making... A hothead sometimes... Turnover prone... Has some baggage.
Injury History: Little. Has played in 73+ games each year except for in his second year in the NBA, and in 04-05, but that was because of his suspension.
Why He Could Become Available: Golden State is awful, need to start rebuilding, and erase there stupid mistake of giving Stephen a contract extension.
Role with Cavs: Be the leader Mike Brown knows he is, be aggressive offensively and defensively, play a good floor game.
Contract Info:
Chris Kaman, Los Angeles
STATS
Height: 7'0" C.
Age: 26 (4/28/82)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Very big and very active... Has above average athleticism and agility for his size... Runs the floor well... Skilled offensive player... Can score with both hands... Makes no mistake from the free-throw line... Has become a great rebounder... Low basketball IQ.
Injury History: Some. He missed 19 games during his second season, and 26 last season, and has been hurt for a lot of this season, but that's it.
Why He Could Become Available: The Clippers are a mess, they need to start somewhere. The only long-term piece on that team is Al Thornton. Besides him, they need to just get rid of everything. Kaman appears to be the odd man out, since the Clippers have 3 big men who can play 35 MPG.
Role with Cavs: Bring energy, rebound, block shots, use his skills offensively.
Contract Info:
Marcus Camby, Los Angeles Clippers
STATS
Height: 6'11" PF/C.
Age: 34 (3/22/74)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Outstanding defensive player... Excellent shot blocker coming from the weak side... Great rebounding skills... You won't see many guys that tall running the floor the way he does... Can score in the open court and after getting the offensive rebound... Able to hit the occasional mid-range shot... Not a lot of low-post moves... A lot of heart.
Injury History: A lot. In his 12 year career, he has only played in atleast 70 games three seasons.
Why He Could Become Available: Again, the Clippers are a mess. Camby is probably unhappy, and may demand a trade to a winning team. The Cavs would definately be interested. I would not give up a core piece for him, though.
Role with Cavs: Defend, block shots, rebound, give us a solid 10 PPG.
Contract Info:
Mike Miller, Minnesota Timberwolves
STATS
Height: 6'8" SG/SF.
Age: 28 (2/19/80)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Great shooter... Good ballhandling skills... Physically gifted player... Good bulk and long arms... Runs the floor well... A great offensive weapon... Can play some point.
Injury History: Little. Never played less than 60 games, and has played atleast 70 games each of the past seasons since 03-04.
Why He Could Become Available: Minnesota is already rebuilding. There have been some reports that Miller would be available for youth, but most likely, he could be available for just an expiring.
Role with Cavs: Shoot the lights out, be a leader.
Contract Info:
John Salmons, Sacramento Kings
STATS
Height: 6'6" SG/SF.
Age: 29 (12/12/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Extremely versatile... High basketball IQ... Does a little bit of everything, but is not great at anything... Not an athletic freak... Jump shot needs work.
Injury History: Very little. Missed 24 games one season, but besides that, not much.
Why He Could Become Available: Sacramento is not good, and are ready to rebuild.
Role with Cavs: Be another scoring threat, as his scouting report says, do a little bit of everything, be an energizer.
Contract Info:
Tracy McGrady, Houston Rockets
STATS
Height: 6'8" SG/SF.
Age: 29 (5/24/79)
Hoopshype Scouting Report: Impressive scorer... Great coordination and quickness... Long arms... Above average ballhandling skills... Can drive to the basket or shoot the ball... Has three-point shooting range... Goes to the line very often... Will post good rebounding numbers... Good vision of the court... Tends to settle for jump shots now more often than in the past... Injury prone... Plays older than his age.
Injury History: Yes. He is an injury prone player, and misses his share of games. Yao is rumored to be sick of it (see below).
Why He Could Become Available: Yao is the franchise, no doubt. If he wants him gone, they will look to trade him. They probably want someone who is not injury prone, but still a very good player. They AREN'T rebuilding!
Role with Cavs: Score like he knows how, play solid all-around, get pumped to play for a championship team.
Contract Info:
That is just proving that there will be quite a few very good options available to us at the deadline. If we don't like any of the offers that we get, we don't even need to make a trade. However, don't just think that these home run players are our only options. There are quite a few other players who may be available, such as Travis Outlaw, Brad Miller, Lamar Odum, Shawn Marion, JR Smith, Samuel Dalembert, David Lee, Charlie Villanueva, Chris Wilcox, Martell Webster, or Shane Battier, or maybe there can even be a few surprise home run players that open up along the way (like Pau Gasol last season).
Also, I would like to thank Hoopshype for the salary info and scouting reports, as well as NBA.com for the pictures, and stats.
Thoughts? What options do you like? Dislike?
EDIT: Just a heads up, I will update this topic whenever I need to. I already added two new players to the list after originally posted (Mike Miller & Tracy McGrady) and I can add as many as I want. Just let me know if I missed one, or possibly if more rumors come up that a new 'home run' player is available I will add them, too. I will also cross of names as they are traded around the deadline.
