Point guard TJ McConnell from Philadelphia 76ers is one of target for Cleveland Cavaliers which desperately seek for a backup to Kyrie Irving. Unfortunately, the Sixers rejected their offer.
The Cavaliers have been searching for backup point guard to organize their play but still unsuccessful. According to Philadelphia Inquirer, they approached 76ers to offer Jordan McRae for McConnell a few weeks ago. However, the 76ers declined the offer.
In regard to the trade rumors McConnell said that he tried not to focus on the issue. His focus right now is to help his team mate and bring the 76ers to play better.
“If you go looking for it, you are going to find it,” McConnell said about the trade rumor. “If you don't, it won't find you."
McConnell is the main target for Cavaliers to support Irving, according to FOX News. However, the Cavaliers made mistake in their offer which did not match the 76ers expectation.
The first mistake is the result of previous trade. Earlier this month, Cavaliers acquired a 35-year old wing players Kyle Korver from Atlanta Hawks, sending away Mo Williams and Mike Dunleavy. Although Korver is a great addition to improve outside shooting for the Cavs, but he did not suit the need for a playmaker.
Korver is only known for his scoring ability from behind the three-point line, but he is far from capable to distribute the ball. Furthermore, he has already passed his prime as the sharp shooter, as he only averages 40.4 percent accuracy in his three-point shooting this season. Far below his prime between 2012 to 2015 in Atlanta.
Another mistake is that Cavaliers offered McRae, who has slightly worse statistics than McCollum as point guard. Philadelphia 76ers needs strong back court players to support their already strong front court with Joel Embid, Nerlens Noel and Jahlil Okafur. Therefore, offering a player who would contribute less than McCollum is far from interesting to 76ers.
Watch the highlight of McConnell play against the Bulls on Jan. 29 as he made 14 points and 12 assists below: