We're a full week into the 2015 NBA free agency period, which means it's time to step back and assess where the Cleveland Cavs have gone so far and where they're headed as the days go on. Here's our Cavs Free Agency Rumors Roundup: What We've Learned.
Brendan Haywood Trade Remains Firmly In Play
The Cavs are still gauging the market for center Brendan Haywood's nonguaranteed $10.5 million deal for 2015-16, engaging a handful of teams in negotiations as they continue to scan the market for knock-down shooters.
Via Sam Amico of Fox Sports:
Cavs still discussing trade of Haywood contract with several teams, including Lakers, Suns, Clippers. Not talking Andy Varejao with anyone.
— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) July 8, 2015
Haywood's deal becomes fully guaranteed on August 1st if he is not waived by then, so we expect a deal to be coming down the turnpike very soon.
Dan Gilbert Showing Willingness To Spend
Per NBA salary cap guru Bobby Marks, the Cleveland Cavs are one of six teams currently slated to be paying a luxury tax penalty for 2015-16 due to their wheelings and dealings over the past few weeks.
Projected tax teams: BKN, CHI, CLE, GSW, MIA, OKC. Repeater tax is BKN and MIA.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 8, 2015
The sting of the team's NBA Finals loss to the Golden State Warriors appears to have fortified Gilbert's resolve when it comes to dropping the cash necessary to build/retain a juggernaut around LeBron James. However...
What's The Deal With Tristan Thompson?
...LeBron reportedly isn't willing to begin talks of a likely one-year deal until Gilbert and the front office opens up its checkbooks and retains free agent rebounder extraordinaire Tristan Thompson.
The sides were said to have reached an agreement last week at this time, but talks remain stalled as of this time. Gilbert's shown a willingness to put his money where his mouth is, and Thompson IS a restricted free agent -- so, we don't see any need or room for panic right about now.
But, this remains a very intriguing situation that will continue to raise eyebrows with the free agent moratorium ending tomorrow.
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