The Cleveland Andre Drummond Cavalier Center is the latest big name in the shopping district. As good as he’s been for the Cavs this season, most experts don’t think he’s part of the team’s long-term plans.
With only one year left on his $127 million contract, this 27-year-old multi-tasker is actually an enticing commercial piece for the March deadline. However, the $28 million remaining on his contract makes it difficult for other teams, as they may have to give up another star in exchange for his salary.
Eastern Conference teams like the Charlotte Hornets Toronto Raptors and Boston Celtics could certainly use a 6-foot-2 giant.
If Mr. Drummond remains in Cleveland after the deadline, there will also be talk of a buyback, with the Brooklyn Nets most likely to offer one.
Drummond may not be as experienced as Nikola Jokic or Joel Embiid but he brings a lot of positives.
In 18 games for the Cavs this season, the UConn product scored 18.1 points, 14.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.4 blocks. It should be noted that Drummond will be a free agent after this season. Teams should be wary of giving too much for their services unless they get an immediate commitment.
Let’s take a look at the three teams that remain under the radar and could take on Andre Drummond before the trade deadline
3. Los Angeles Clippers
Not only do the Clippers need a true playmaker, but they also need an upgrade up front. Serge Ibaka and Ivica Zubac still hold the fort, but they need someone like Andre Drummond to protect the paint from some of the best centers in the West.
With Drummond on defense, the Clippers can finally compete with Anthony Davis nikola jokic and Rudy Gobert. In addition, Drummond will undoubtedly celebrate with all the glances thrown his way as the defense takes aim at LOS ANGELES superstar duo Kawhi Leonard and Paul George
But getting a Drummond is easier said than done. The gimmick featuring Patrick Beverley, Lou Williams, Ivica Zubac and Terence Mann makes its appearance on the payroll. However, he would clearly break the Clips’ bench, so they think twice about André being worth that much.
2. Dallas Mavericks
The European duo of Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis created a lot of enthusiasm in Big D. But their inability to change the center of the game prevented the team from being a serious contender for years.
The Mavs need help bouncing and protecting the rim, which Willie Cauley-Stein, often injured, can’t consistently provide. Drummond meets all of these criteria and more.
A guy who is only 27, so he fits in with the Mavs’ young core. He has also been the league’s top rebounder the past three seasons, making him a boon to head coach Rick Carlisle’s system.
The key for Dallas in this deal is James Johnson’s expiring $16 million contract. They could add Dwight Powell or Maxi Kleber to the deal, depending on the Cavs’ preference. The money is a match anyway.
However, Johnson and Kleber/Powell don’t have Drummond’s strength, so Dallas will likely have to break down a future first or second round pick to make that happen.
1. Portland Trail Blazers
Andre Drummond would be a perfect fit for a Portland team decimated by injuries. The team is betting its chips on Jusuf Nurkic and really needs a more reliable option in the middle.
In addition to his bouncy, inner presence, Drummond is also an underrated filmmaker. This presents many opportunities for superstar Damian Lillard and the injured C.J. McCollum upon his return.
Like the two teams above, Portland needs a good team with a proven track record to keep up with the western teams. Drummond, a two-time All-Star, will give Rip City the dominant center they have been looking forward to for years.
You can get rid of Nurkic, Zach Collins, Nassir Little and a second round pick in the package. But because the numbers don’t add up, the Blazers can make a complicated deal with three teams to get Drummond.
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