The Cleveland Cavaliers are not yet done beefing up their roster.
In a report by Fansided.com, the Cavs are reportedly eyeing on 7'2" center Roy Hibbert of the Indiana Pacers to strengthen their frontcourt. However, it might take a third team to make a deal happen. Evan Massey of Fansided tweeted the news on September 29, "Latest: #Cavaliers and #Pacers have had discussions on Roy Hibbert, but are looking to bring a third team in to make salaries work. #NBA."
Although it initially seemed farfetched that the Pacers would consider trading the big man, the team was allegedly shopping for possible teams to transfer him. Sporting News reported that the Pacers were quietly searching for landing spots for Hibbert and weighing their options after shooting guard Lance Stephenson transferred and Paul George suffered a horrific leg injury. A source said, "I would say they've been doing that, but quietly."
A general manager reportedly said, "They're open to making major changes, if they're here. I think they'd be disappointed to see that same core group back intact, so it is a matter, how drastic can the changes they make be? Moving Hibbert for multiple pieces would be a pretty drastic change, but they're asking."
Hibbert is still bound to earn $30 million from Indiana in the next two seasons. He previously signed a maximum contract with the Pacers for four years as a restricted free agent in 2012.
Throughout the offseason, LeBron James and Cleveland have been busy with trades which resulted to Kevin Love's transfer from the Minnesota Timberwolves, among others. A Sporting News source said that talks have already begun between Cleveland and Indiana, with the Cavs offering Dion Waiters, Brendan Haywood plus a first-round pick. Another source noted that Indiana preferred to move Hibbert to the Western Conference. Inquisitr.com wrote that it is not yet certain which third team could be involved in the trade but that the Pacers are open to a deal that would bring in players with better long-term effects on the team.
Should Cleveland successfully acquire Hibbert, they would create a formidable quartet consisting of James, Hibbert, Love and Kyrie Irving. Hibbert would be a great asset to the Cavaliers especially in defense. He had ups and downs in the playoffs, however, only averaging 9.3 points and 5.5 rebounds. His blocking ability has been consistent at 2.2 per game, which will be very useful to the Cavs.