Report: Cavaliers Target Kosta Koufos, Could Possibly Trade Dion Waiters
We know by now that the Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to make some subtle, viable changes despite the talented core they’ve acquired. Their biggest need and top priority is to add depth, especially in the front court and on the wing. They showed interest in trading for Denver Nuggets big man Timofey Mozgov, but Denver didn’t take.
Now after reports of Cleveland showing interest in Memphis Grizzlies forward Tayshaun Prince, the Cavaliers are reportedly targeting Grizzlies big man Kosta Koufos.
From ESPN’s Marc Stein:
Cleveland, sources say, has been inquiring with the Memphis Grizzlies about the available of reserve center Kosta Koufos among their various trade pursuits.
Sources say that the Cavs are well aware landing a quality big man likely depends on selling on potential trade partners to take back polarizing shooting guard Dion Waiters. Cleveland rates Waiters’ talent highly, but sources maintain that the Cavs have let a number of teams know they are prepared to surrender him if they can acquire a difference-making center in return.
Koufos, by contrast, is an unrestricted free agent next summer whose camp, sources say, has made it known to Grizzlies management that it has less than pleased with the limited role carved out for the 7-footer over the past two seasons.
Dion Waiters has had his brief moments with this Cavaliers team this season, but his role and presence still don’t seem to completely mesh with what they want to do. His production and scoring have dipped significantly and if there are additions to be made, dealing Waiters seems to be the top option for Cleveland.
The Cavaliers could acquire Koufos using their trade exception, but bringing on both Prince and Koufos would require a more extensive trade with Waiters as the likely centerpiece for Memphis. It’s also curious if the Grizzlies would even consider embracing Waiters. His high volume, offensive-oriented style doesn’t seem to fit right in with what Memphis likes to do, but every team needs offense. Maybe both teams will be able to get something out of this, unless another trade pursuit opens up for Cleveland.
