Can the Cleveland Cavaliers field an enticing offer for Caris LeVert and the Indiana Pacers?
In this trade idea from FanSided’s King James Gospel, the Indiana Pacers send guard Caris LeVert to the Cleveland Cavaliers for guard Ricky Rubio, their 2022 first-round pick, and their two 2022 second-round picks via the Houston Rockets and the San Antonio Spurs.
Cleveland’s interest in LeVert has been well-documented, especially with them lacking backcourt firepower outside of Darius Garland following season-ending injuries to both Collin Sexton and Rubio. Hence, the bulk of the Cavaliers’ scoring attack has come from their frontcourt, with Garland in the middle of it all.
However, their concentric scoring profile makes them a tier below the East’s true contenders. In the playoffs, they could very well struggle with defenses more resolute on slowing down Garland, their leading scorer and assist man. This is a department where LeVert could flourish as a second fiddle.
In return, the Pacers can secure all of the Cavs’ draft selections this year, alongside Rubio’s expiring contract. Reports have popped up indicating that Indiana’s brass wants two first-rounders or one first-round pick and a young talented player for LeVert, so this offer, while not the end of the world, may end up falling short, especially if there is another team that will be willing to overpay for the shooting guard.
Grade: C+