The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed free agent centre Andrew Bynum to a 2 year contract. The free agent spent last season with the Philadelphia 76ers after being traded in a monster 4-team deal that saw the Los Angeles Lakers acquire Dwight Howard. However, Bynum did not play a single game for Philadelphia, sitting out the season with injuries to both of his knees.
The 2 year deal is potentially worth $24.5 million, however only $6 million of that money is guaranteed. The first year of the deal includes the $6 million guarantee and $6 million in potential bonuses. The second year of the deal is a team option worth $12.5 million.
Even at just $6 million guaranteed, it is a major gamble for the Cavaliers. There is still some question as to Bynum’s knees, as it is not even certain that he will be ready to go by training camp. Bynum was also meeting with the Dallas Mavericks, who ultimately decided that he was not worth that level of risk.
Bynum had his best season in 2011-12 with the Los Angeles Lakers when he averaged 18.7 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocked shots per game.
The Cavaliers can add this signing along with earlier signings of Jarrett Jack, and Earl Clark, and the drafting of 1st overall pick Anthony Bennett as they look to rebuild their team after finishing 24-48 last season for 13th in the NBA’s Eastern Conference.
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