Trade Breakdown:
Magic Get: 3rd Pick, Kevin Love
Cavs Get: 5th Pick, Johnathan Issac, Terrance Ross, 2023 2nd Round Pick
Why the Cavs make this trade:
Want Kevin Love out of Cleveland while gaining assets? This trade keeps the Cavs in the top 5 of the draft and add a future 2nd in 2023, which will probably be in the 31 - 35 range. Cavs also pick up a solid piece in Ross who could start or come off the bench. Johnathan Issac is the key piece of the trade, who could potentially transform the Cavs defense. It should be noted thought that this is a risk, as he is coming off an ACL tear, but has star potential regardless.
This trade can easily help the Cavs get back in the playoffs, and if not, they can use Ross as a valuable trade chip at the trade deadline to pick up more picks.
This also creates some cap space for the Cavs for further FA flexibility. Cavs could also consider packaging 5 and Sexton for another win now piece if they wanted.
Cavs fill needs while accomplishing some offseason tasks, all in one deal. Seems like a no brainer.
Why the Magic make this trade:
If the Magic really believe Mobley is the piece to build around and fear that the Raptors might snag him at 4 (barring the Cavs don’t take him at 3) then it makes sense that the trade up.
It should be noted that the Magic aren’t giving up 8 or a future 1st which is a BIG positive for them, considering recent trade ups in past drafts like the Mavs - Hawks and 76ers - Celtics trades.
Now giving up Isaac and Ross stings, but Issac is a wildcard given his current injury. Not to mention, he would probably crowd up the front court if the Magic keep him and take Mobley, while also having Carter Jr. and Bomba. Trading both Ross and Issac ensures that the Magic are a bottom team next year and most likely in 2023 as well, barring exceeding expectations in their rebuild.
Now for Kevin Love. Kevin Love is the one part of this trade that the Magic might not want to take on. Or any team for that matter. But Kevin Love could have his value rebuilt on a Magic team that needs a mentor and leadership. Not to mention, playing well for a few months without any ball hogs might help Love return to form. Then he could be flipped at the deadline or next offseason when there’s less money on his contract (only 28 million).
Alternatively, the Magic buy him out, which I’m sure Kevin will take way less money then he currently would with the Cavs, given his new situation on a team going into a rebuild.
A risky move for sure, but if the Magic are desperate, they might have to pay the price.
Final Thoughts:
As the title suggests this trade tries to get outside the box for a win-win trade for both the Cavs and their future Kevin Love trade partner, whom may or may not exist. Overall I found the exercise fun.
This definitely may be considered an overpay in many fans eyes by the Magic in what their giving up. They could ask to leave future 2nds off the table, downgrade 5 to pick 8 or not include Ross.
I think if a trade like this were made (which I’ll admit, is highly unlikely) it would probably be a last second move on draft night out of desperation by the Magic. There no way this trade is made before draft night.
If this trade (or even something close to it, assuming 5 and Issac are included) we’re offered by the Magic, I’d accept, if I’m the Cavs. It’s better than nothing.
Yes there are risks and it could back fire, but the Cavs need to realize that taking some risks is the only way to get them back into the playoffs within 1 - 2 years while improving the team weaknesses. That is there goal after all - making the playoffs.
The Cavs need a locker room make over following the Love drama this past year. They also need bench help, 3 point shooting, and more importantly DEFENSE. This trade tries to do all 4. The Cavs trade 3 too, another check off their “bucket list.”
Feel free to grade or even modify the trade to make it more “fairer” for both teams. Or flame it for being trash. IDC. Just a fan trying to have fun. Enjoy!