Fresh off a 4-1 loss in the 2017 NBA Finals, the Cleveland Cavaliers find themselves in a very unique situation as we progress into the offseason. After firing David Griffin less than a week ago, the Cavs are still GM-less with just six days until the beginning of the 2017 free agency period. This past Thursday, the Cavs were pick-less in the draft and did not make any trades to improve their roster. They only have three free agents to deal with this offseason, and none of those appear to be of any high priority. Cleveland has been involved in numerous trade talks surrounding Paul George, Carmelo Anthony, Kenneth Faried, and others.
Deron Williams (PG), Unrestricted
Deron Williams is the Cavs’ most valuable free agent this season, stepping into the backup point guard role after being waived by the Dallas Mavericks mid-season. Williams struggled in the postseason and more notably in the Finals this year, but did average 7.5 points and 3.6 assists per game in 20 contests after joining the Cavs. Hit postseason averages of 4.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game were the worst of his career. At 36 years old, Williams days as a starter appear to be over, but he can offer leadership, scoring, and passing off the bench. Expect Cleveland to try and re-sign the veteran to a minimum contract. Given this was his first finals appearance of his 12-year career, he will likely remain with the Cavs.
Kyle Korver, (SG), Unrestricted
Just a week into the new year, Korver was traded from Atlanta to Cleveland in exchange for Mike Dunleavy, a future protected first round draft pick, and cash. This move turned out to be beneficial for Korver, who saw his numbers increase despite receiving slightly less playing time. In 35 games with the Cavs in the regular season, Korver averaged 10.7 points (48% FG, 48% 3Pt, 93% FT), and 2.7 rebounds across 24.5 minutes per game. Korver was mainly used as a spot shooter, and came close to reaching 50% makes. Despite his defensive struggles, Cleveland needs him, and should re-sign.
James Jones, (SF), Unrestricted
Unlike Williams and Korver, Jones is virtually useless for the Cavs outside of veteran leadership. Jones has played with LeBron on all three of his championship teams, but did not have a significant role in any of them. He averaged less than eight minutes per game this regular season, which was all garbage time. At 36 and with his prime well behind him, Jones will likely either re-sign with Cleveland to a one-year deal, or consider retirement.
