The Cleveland Cavaliers just watched one of their direct competitors get better.
The Orlando Magic gave up a whole lot to make sure to get Desmond Bane, and while most people might agree that they overpaid for his services, they did so because he was just the type of player they needed.
That’s why Jimmy Watkins believes the Cavs should be wary of using Bane’s value to determine whether they should make a move.
Instead, they need to consider whether they’re going to get the pieces they need to compete or not:
“For the Cavaliers, this means approaching potential trades with a clear understanding of their own specific needs rather than chasing abstract ‘value.’ It also means recognizing that the market for players like Garland or Jarrett Allen will be determined by which teams view them as perfect fits โ not by how many picks [Desmond] Bane commanded,” per Wine and Gold Talk Podcast. “The Cavaliers donโt need to force moves or accept packages based on abstract value metrics. Instead, they can wait for offers that address their specific situation and competitive timeline.”
That makes perfect sense.
Granted, it would be nice to see the Cavs get four first-round picks and multiple pick swaps for Darius Garland or Jarrett Allen, but as much as that would help their cause in the future, it wouldn’t do much to help their case right now.
Of course, that would be the right move if they want to take a long-term approach and don’t think they can compete for an NBA championship as currently constructed.
But if they still believe in this core and think they’re just a piece or two away from getting over the hump, they need to focus on fit over value, says Watkins.
Unfortunately, it’s hard to believe that anybody will be willing to give up so many draft picks to get their hands on Garland or Allen, but we’ve seen crazier things happen in this league.
NEXT: Analyst Reveals A Big Concern About Darius Garland's Trade Value
