(Sports Network) - A year after starting their rebuilding project with Rookie
of the Year Kyrie Irving as well as promising forward Tristan Thompson, the
Cleveland Cavaliers should be able to get another significant piece in this
year's draft.
The Cavs possess the No. 4 overall pick as well as the 24th and have their
eyes on Florida shooting guard Bradley Beal, a player that could team with
Irving to solidify the team's backcourt for years to come.
It's unlikely Beal will last to No. 4, however, since Washington, sitting at
No. 3, also covets him. Charlotte, on the other hand, isn't as high on Beal
and needs assets so trading the two No. 1 picks to move up to the Bobcats'
second selection looks like an option.
If Cleveland is forced to stay out they would still like a wing player that
can create his own shot but Anderson Varejao's injury last season also proved
that the team needs depth in the frontcourt.
The Cavaliers should be looking heavily at Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
as well as UConn center Andre Drummond.
Players under contract: G: Kyrie Irving; G: Manny Harris; G: Daniel Gibson;
G: Donald Sloan; F: Tristan Thompson; F: Omri Casspi; F: Luke Walton;
F: Samardo Samuels; F: D.J. Kennedy; F/C: Anderson Varejao
Free agents: C: Semih Erden (restricted); G/F: Alonzo Gee (restricted);
F: Luke Harangody (restricted); F: Antawn Jamison; G: Anthony Parker
Recent Draft History:
2011: Kyrie Irving (1), Tristan Thompson (4), Justin Harper (32), Milan Macvan
(54)
2010: No picks
2009: Christian Eyenga (30), Daniel Green (46)
2008: J.J. Hickson (19)
2007: No picks
Draft picks: 1st round (4th overall, 24th overall), 2nd round (33rd
overall, 34th overall)
The Sports Network