Multiple Teams Eye Cavaliers’ Dean Wade as Trade Deadline Approaches
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At least 10 NBA clubs have contacted the Cleveland Cavaliers to discuss forward Dean Wade ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline, according to a report from Chris Fedor of cleveland.com.
Cleveland has turned down every inquiry to this point, but league interest continues to build as the cutoff date draws closer.
Why Wade Is in Demand
The 27-year-old is valued for his versatility. He can guard multiple positions, stretch the floor on offense and shift seamlessly between roles. Recent games have seen Wade defend guards such as Devin Booker one night and operate as a small-ball center the next.
Lineups featuring Wade alongside Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley have produced elite defensive numbers, and his stints as a starter next to Donovan Mitchell have helped steady both ends of the floor.
Contract Makes Deal Easy to Structure
Wade’s contract is expiring, making salary matching straightforward for potential partners. Any acquiring team would also obtain his Bird Rights, giving them flexibility to re-sign him this summer.
Cleveland Weighs Risk of Moving Him
Despite the volume of calls, the Cavaliers are hesitant to part with Wade because they lack an obvious in-house replacement for his unique blend of perimeter defense and frontcourt spacing.
With the deadline less than two weeks away, rival executives are expected to keep dialing, but for now Cleveland appears inclined to keep the 6-foot-9 forward in its rotation.
Source: Hoops Wire
