Front offices around the league are weighing last-minute moves before Thursday’s trade deadline, with the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder each drawing attention to different rotation pieces, according to multiple reports.
Cavaliers listen on Max Strus, keep Lonzo Ball available
Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com reports that rival clubs have contacted Cleveland about guard Max Strus, who has not appeared this season after offseason foot surgery. The 27-year-old is signed through the 2026-27 campaign, and his contract’s final season is viewed as a key factor while the Cavaliers evaluate future roster flexibility.
Cleveland’s decision could also be influenced by Keon Ellis, who becomes extension-eligible on Feb. 9. Although preliminary talks on Strus have occurred, serious negotiations are considered more likely during the offseason, Fedor notes.
The Cavaliers are also “dangling” Lonzo Ball. His $10 million team option for next season is effectively an expiring contract, making the guard a useful salary-matching piece as Cleveland explores broader trade scenarios. Ball has struggled to find consistency in his first year with the club.
Knicks try to move Guerschon Yabusele
The Knicks continue to look for a destination for forward Guerschon Yabusele, but opposing front offices perceive his deal as a negative asset, according to The Athletic’s James Edwards III. Executives believe New York would have to attach draft compensation unless Yabusele is included in a larger multi-team trade.
Edwards lists Yabusele among the Knicks’ most likely trade candidates, alongside Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Kolek and Jordan Clarkson. Clarkson, recently removed from the rotation, could become a buyout option after the deadline if no trade materializes.
Thunder weigh options on Ousmane Dieng
Oklahoma City is open to dealing forward Ousmane Dieng, and there is a “real possibility” he is moved by Thursday, Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman reports. Dieng, in his fourth season, is viewed internally as one of the Thunder’s most movable players.
“I don’t really think about it,” Dieng said. “I’m just trying to improve every day and help the team win.” For a roster balancing development and contention, the Thunder’s choice may hinge more on timing than talent.
Source: Hoops Wire
