NBA Cleveland Cavaliers

5 Early-Season Trade Targets for the Cleveland Cavaliers

5 Early-Season Trade Targets for the Cavaliers

5 Early-Season Trade Targets for the Cavaliers
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Even though the Cleveland Cavaliers, with their current roster, are still considered title contenders this season, it certainly doesn't mean they won't be active in the trade market. With LeBron James in tow, the team will still look to make any improvements they can in attempts to bring the city of Cleveland its first title since '64. With that in mind, here are a few names the Cavs might be aiming for at this point in the year.

1. Kosta Koufos

1. Kosta Koufos
Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

1. Kosta Koufos

1. Kosta Koufos
Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

The Cavs’ top priority is a rim protector, which they would certainly get in Koufos. The Memphis Grizzlies big man has had his name attached to Cleveland for the past few weeks, but prying him away won’t be easy. He’s currently giving the Grizzlies’ big men much-needed bench relief, so the Cavs would have to give more than a couple assets to bring him in.

2. Timofey Mozgov

2. Timofey Mozgov
Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

2. Timofey Mozgov

2. Timofey Mozgov
Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

The Denver Nuggets center has been a target of Cleveland since before James returned this summer, and for good reason. He’d easily make up for the Cavs’ lack of low post defense. However, word is the two teams haven’t discussed Mozgov in quite a while. There’s still time for talks to reheat, but Cleveland may have moved on.

3. Brook Lopez

3. Brook Lopez
Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

3. Brook Lopez

3. Brook Lopez
Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

Lopez’ injuries, plus the emergence of Mason Plumlee have made the Brooklyn Nets big man available. It’d certainly be the most notable name on the list of Cleveland’s trade targets, but it obviously comes with risk. Lopez has struggled to stay healthy, and the Cavs don’t want to take a home run swing only to watch him have issues staying on the court. His name will surely keep popping up in Cleveland’s rumor mill, though.

4. Robin Lopez

4. Robin Lopez
Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports

4. Robin Lopez

4. Robin Lopez
Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports

Like his brother, Robin Lopez is dealing with injuries as well, expecting to be out a couple months. However, his name is one to keep an eye on as the trade deadline nears. It’s doubtful the Cavs consider him a viable option, especially dealing with hurdles brought on by salary. If all else fails, and Cleveland can’t seem to find any other big men available, Lopez could be worth looking into.

5. Wesley Matthews

5. Wesley Matthews
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

5. Wesley Matthews

5. Wesley Matthews
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Front-court isn’t the only area of need for Cleveland, as they’re also looking to help out their depth in the back-court as well. The Portland Trailblazers’ guard has reportedly generated attention from Cleveland, as he’s coming off his best season in terms of PPG. Interest is simply at curiosity-level at the moment, but keep an eye on Matthews as someone the Cavs may start aiming for.

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