The Cleveland Cavaliers made a bold move, acquiring Kyle Korver from the Atlanta Hawks. However, the defending champions might not be done yet in improving their roster in their title defense.
While they were able to address their need for another shooter, the Cavaliers need another rim protector, FanSided's King James Gospel reported. Phoenix Suns center Tyson Chandler was mentioned as one of the possible trade targets for the Cavaliers before the deadline in February.
The Cavaliers have Tristan Thompson as their starting center, but the Canadian workhorse is a natural power forward. Channing Frye is coming off the bench but is not known as a shot blocker. Chris Andersen is a good rim protector, but the veteran went down with a torn ACL earlier in the season.
Adding another defensive presence could put the Cavaliers closer to winning the title for the second straight season. There are attractive options on the market like Nerlens Noel and Nikola Vucevic. However, a trade for Noel or Vucevic will cost the Cavaliers more compared to a deal for a veteran rim protector like Chandler.
Chandler was the 2012 NBA Defensive Player of the Year during his time with the Dallas Mavericks. While is already catching up with the 15-year veteran, he is still one of the most intimidating centers in the league.
If the Cavaliers want to acquire Chandler, they might be forced to give up Iman Shumpert, though. According to the report, a trade involving Shumpert and Chandler, including one of the trade exceptions the Cavaliers own, could work wonders for both teams. The Cavs will get a rim protector, while the Suns will get an experienced backcourt player.
However, this will create another hole in the backcourt for the Cavaliers. They have been searching for a backup to Kyrie Irving and trading Shumpert might make them more desperate to find another point guard.
Dallas Mavericks veteran Deron Williams, Chicago Bulls point guard Rajon Rondo and Denver Nuggets playmaker Jameer Nelson are possible trade targets for the Cavaliers, Fox Sports reported. The Cavaliers currently have rookie point guard Kay Felder as their backup point guard, which is why adding another playmaker is a must for the Cavs.
Rondo might be dealt before the deadline if the benching continues. Williams and Nelson are also dispensable, especially if their respective teams fail to enter the playoff picture in the coming weeks.
