The Cavs might also be looking for another center. Isaiah Hartenstein, who arrived in the JaVale McGee deal with Denver, has a player option. Sources expect him to exercise that and become a free agent. Hartenstein, who made the minimum this past season, likes it in Cleveland. But he boosted his value over the final few months and opting in would make him underpaid at $1.7 million. Hartenstein’s preference, according to sources, is to renegotiate a more lucrative long-term deal, staying with the Cavs as Allen’s backup.
Cleveland Cavaliers Rumors
No conversations between Kevin Love, Cavaliers about a buyout yet
Moving on from Love isn’t easy. His trade value has cratered, currently seen leaguewide as a negative asset because of his age, injury history, massive contract (owed $60 million over next two years) and public outbursts. Opposing teams want the Cavs to give up at least a draft pick or a young player in a Love swap. The Cavs aren’t in position to do that.
For some in the front office, the idea of a waive-and-stretch [with Kevin Love] is a non-starter. In this scenario, Love would be gone while still counting against the salary cap at $12 million per season for five years. That’s a burdensome financial hit that would impact team building and salary flexibility moving forward;
Sources say there have been no conversations with Love about a buyout either. The sense I get: Love would have to initiate those talks while also giving up some salary to make it worth it. Another factor that looms: Love’s contract will be expiring following this season, giving him more trade value.
Free agent Josh Hart would like a fresh start outside of New Orleans?
[Impending free agent] Josh Hart, who is one of Nance’s best friends and, sources say, would like a fresh start.
The Cavs might also be looking for another center. Isaiah Hartenstein, who arrived in the JaVale McGee deal with Denver, has a player option. Sources expect him to exercise that and become a free agent. Hartenstein, who made the minimum this past season, likes it in Cleveland.
