NBA Rumors: 7 Small Forwards Cleveland Cavaliers Could Pursue for 2011-2012
The small forward position for the Cavaliers in 2010-2011 was a train wreck, nuclear spill and Christina Aguilera's Super Bowl National Anthem all rolled into one.
Jamario Moon started at the three on opening night. The unenviable position also saw the services of Joey Graham, Anthony Parker, Christian Eyenga, Jawad Williams and Alonzo Gee.
The only one who didn't begin the season with the Cavs was Gee, who actually did the best job despite starting the year in the Developmental League.
Obviously, an upgrade is needed.
This is my list of the top seven small forwards the Cavaliers should pursue, either through free agency, trades, or the draft.
Grant Hill
1 of 7
Why the Cavaliers Need Him
Hill is 38 years old but still put up over 13 points per game last season and was Phoenix's best defender. He's also a class act and consummate professional who would be a great influence in a young Cleveland locker room.
With all the great forwards in next years NBA draft, the Cavs could sign him to a one-year deal and hope his work ethic and leadership trickles down to the new rookies coming in.
What Would He Cost?
A one-year deal worth approximately $2-4 million. Phoenix is likely not to re-sign him, however, Hill would probably like to play for a contender in what could be his last NBA season.
Wilson Chandler
2 of 7
Why the Cavaliers Need Him
Chandler is an athletic wing who can score, rebound and defend. Just 24, his career in Denver may be short-lived depending on the Nuggets offseason priorities.
J.R. Smith and Kenyon Martin will be unrestricted free agents. Nene can opt out of his contract as well. Chandler is a restricted free agent that the Nuggets might not be able to afford.
The Cavaliers could use his scoring and athleticism in their lineup.
What Would He Cost?
Chandler's shown enough to merit a contract worth $8-12 million annually. If Cleveland comes up with a four-year, $40 million offer sheet Denver may be forced to let him walk.
Tayshaun Prince
3 of 7
Why the Cavaliers Need Him
Prince is a veteran small forward with championship experience that would be good in a lineup with young talent. He's never been a huge offensive threat, but his length makes him an excellent wing defender.
I doubt he'd want to go from one rebuilding project in Detroit to another, but the allure of playing on a young, talented roster and Dan Gilbert's checkbook could convince him to don the wine and gold.
What Would He Cost?
Prince is an unrestricted free agent, and could go for $5-10 million per season on the market. If the Cavs could use their mid-level exception of $5.7 million on him, Prince could be a very intriguing piece to bring in.
Chandler Parsons
4 of 7
Why the Cavaliers Need Him
Parsons enjoyed a stellar four-year career at Florida, which saw him hit multiple game-winning shots, some from ridiculous distances.
At 6'10" he could be a match-up problem for many in the league, and he possesses both inside and outside shooting abilities.
While he'll likely never be a star, he could start as fourth or fifth option on a good team or remain an offensive threat off the bench
What Would He Cost?
Parsons will likely be a second round pick in this NBA draft. The Cavs could nab him with their first pick in the second round.
Andre Iguodala
5 of 7
Why the Cavaliers Need Him
A.I. is a great perimeter defender and can also rebound, dish and score from multiple areas on the court. He's extremely overpaid, which is why Philly may want to move him.
He never turned into the superstar the 76ers were hoping he'd be, but he remains a very good athlete, one that can play small forward or shooting guard.
He'd be a tremendous upgrade over what Cleveland put on the court last year, and a change of scenery may just be what he needs entering the prime of his career.
What Would He Cost?
The $14.5 million trade exception would definitely have to be used to cover his salary. Depending on how much Philly actually wants to keep him, they may demand a young player or a future first rounder as well.
Derrick Williams
6 of 7
Why the Cavaliers Need Him
Williams has openly said he'd like to fill Cleveland's void at small forward and that he has the "star quality" to be able to do so. Whether he's right, or if he'll even play the three in the NBA, remains to be seen, but Williams does appear to have a bright future in the league.
With J.J. Hickson holding down the four, if the Cavs are convinced Williams is a small forward they could very well take him as the next franchise star.
What Would He Cost?
The first overall pick in this years draft, or the second overall if the whole Rip Hamilton trade thing happens.
Danny Granger
7 of 7
Why the Cavaliers Need Him
Granger is an elite scorer in the league and is still often unmentioned among the games greats despite leading the Pacers to the playoffs this past season.
He's scored better than 20 points per game the last three seasons and is an excellent three-point and free-throw shooter.
At 28, Granger should be in the prime of his career and would give the Cavs a huge scoring boost to take pressure off the incoming lottery picks.
What Would He Cost?
With approximately three years and $40 million left on his deal, the trade exception would again have to come into play. The Pacers are likely not to trade Granger, unless they believe Paul George can be their future.
Would the fourth overall pick in this years draft and the salary relief be enough for Larry Bird to pull the deal?
