Hear me out. I think in the Cavs system, a ball dominant 3 will not work. All other two-way forwards in JT Thor and Luke Travers seem to fill a hole in the current team if they continue to develop.

Bates still has value as a project young guy! On the wizards, he could work his way into the lineup and make progress in his career faster.

This also opens up a two way spot for the Cavs to potentially develop a PG or C. They may consider Pete Nance but personally would love another young center to put in that spot ... The Cavs really could use a TT future replacement to develop.

So that is my strategy . Take advantage of Bates value to diversify the positions we have two way contracts for and pick someone that could fit into the Cavs system better potentially.

This trade would give Cavs flexibility with two ... Yes two second Rd picks in 2025, 2026 and 2027... Future draft and stash guys and future bench guys as the Cavs hit the cap room nightmare years.