The Golden State Warriors have endured a horrific campaign so far, and rumors are swirling around a fire sale involving a star player. One player who holds decent trade value is Andrew Wiggins, and the Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly interested.
The Cavs could have interest in Andrew Wiggins, per @AmicoHoops
(Via https://t.co/WYwk5KlcE3) pic.twitter.com/xxdrP1zqAn
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 11, 2024
NBA Rumors: Cavaliers Could Make a Move for Warriors Star
The Warriors and Wiggins Are Not Working
Cleveland famously drafted Wiggins with the first overall pick in 2014. However, LeBron James’ much-publicized return led to Wiggins being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a trade package for Kevin Love before he had even set foot on the court. This would be a full-circle reunion for Wiggins and the Cavaliers. It could also be a much-needed reset for the former Kansas Jayhawks star.
Wiggins was terrific during the Warriors’ 2022 title run. He also looked to be a mainstay with the team after an equally productive season in 2022-23. But his poor play, combined with Golden State’s dysfunctional on-court issues, led to him being benched by head coach Steve Kerr. Such a move would have been unthinkable a year ago, but the Warriors need a shakeup.
Wiggins’ minutes and stats are significantly down this year. He’s averaging 11.7 points on 29.8% shooting from three, as opposed to 17.1 points and 39.6% shooting from three last year. Golden State is 3-6 in their last nine games and is staring at an arduous road to make the play-in.
The Cavaliers Need Help
On the other hand, the Cavaliers are the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference with a solid record of 22-15, considering the injuries that have accumulated throughout the year.
Star point guard Darius Garland has been out with a facial fracture since December 15th. Evan Mobley, the focal point of the Cavs’ defense, underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in December. He is expected to remain sidelined until early February at the earliest. Mobley is one of nine players averaging at least 15 points and 10 rebounds on 55% shooting or better.
If Wiggins can return to form, he would be a tremendous addition on both ends. This is especially true given his ability to guard opposing star wings and his prowess from beyond the arc.
Who Gets Traded?
Kevon Looney has been subpar thus far, and the Warriors may consider asking for Jarrett Allen in return, given their frontcourt scarcity. However, the Cavaliers may be reluctant to part with their big man, considering Mobley’s injury status.
If Cleveland did deal Allen to the Warriors, they would be left with Tristan Thompson and Damian Jones as the only other true centers on the roster. Perhaps a three-team trade could be on the cards. Or, a deal involving Looney and Wiggins for Allen and another piece.
A blockbuster deal involving Donovan Mitchell seems far-fetched. Still, it remains a possibility as rumors continue to grow over a potential divorce between Cleveland and the four-time All-Star.
Time to Move On
After spending nearly two months away from the court to deal with his father’s medical ailments, Wiggins has never quite looked like the star player who was so pivotal in delivering a championship to the Bay in 2022. A change of scenery might be the best idea for both parties.
