Cavs Forward Dean Wade Emerges as Name to Watch Before Feb. 5 Trade Deadline
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Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade is drawing interest from rival clubs as the NBA’s Feb. 5 trade deadline approaches, Grant Afseth of the Dallas Hoops Journal reported.
The 27-year-old is in the final season of a $6.6 million contract. According to Afseth, the Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets and other teams have already checked on his availability.
Wade is averaging 5.3 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 22.7 minutes this season. Despite his modest numbers, executives view the 6-foot-9 forward as a cost-effective rotation piece who can defend multiple positions and stretch the floor.
“While the spotlight will naturally fall on bigger names such as Darius Garland or Jarrett Allen, one player to monitor is Dean Wade,” Afseth wrote, citing league sources.
Cleveland entered Friday at 15-14, still eyeing an Eastern Conference playoff push but struggling to find consistent depth. An NBA executive told Afseth the team “missed on the margins,” noting previous moves for De’Andre Hunter, Ty Jerome’s departure and the signings of Lonzo Ball and Max Strus. “They are very limited in what they can change,” the executive added.
With more than 50 games remaining, the Cavaliers can still climb the standings, yet Wade’s expiring deal and affordable salary make him a realistic chip if the front office decides adjustments are necessary before the deadline.
Source: Hoops Wire
