Cavaliers’ Future “Drummond” Up Interest?

It is no secret that the Cleveland Cavaliers have been struggling since “The Kid From Akron” took his talents out west to Hollywood. The 2018-2019 season was an extended tanking session, finishing with a 19-63 record and being the second worse team in the East. The off-season did not bring much excitement, outside of the draft where the Cavs drafted Darius Garland, Dylan Windler, then later acquiring Kevin Porter Jr. While the rookies, mixed with the signing of college basketball coaching titan John Beilein, provided some optimism, no one expected big things from the ball club.

The Cavaliers did look good at times on the court putting together their first three-game winning streak since 2018, early in the season. But that was the one and only highlight for Coach Beilein as head coach, as he stepped down from his duties on February 19th. Enter the J.B. Bickerstaff era. With newly acquired former All-Star, Andre Drummond, from the Pistons at the trade deadline, J.B. took the job head-on with optimism and gusto. Winning 5 out of the 11 games up until the post-postponement of the NBA season, things were looking up for Cleveland. So, that raises the question: What is next for the former NBA Champions?

With the expriring contracts of Tristan Thompson, Matt Dellavedova, and Ante Zizic, the Cavs’ have some open Cap space to make some moves. With the rise of Collin Sexton and Kevin Porter Jr. this season, we may have an idea for how our future looks for the first time in a long time. The future hopefully includes Andre Drummond who averaged 17.5 points and 11.1 rebounds in the short run he had with the team. Andre does have a player option for the 2020-2021 season worth 28.8 million dollars which the Cavs hope to capitalize on, since he has gone on record saying “the transition has been great!”during an AMA with bleacher report. Signing him should be the first priority for Koby Altman and the front office with the open cap they are getting. But in doing that, it takes away minutes from Tristan Thompson. Tristan was expecting to be moved at the deadline, but the right deal never came forward. However, the Cleveland Iron-Man has been super loyal to this organization, and has not been shy about saying he is open to a sign-then-trade so that the Cavaliers do not have to let him walk scott-free.

With the way the squad stepped up their game once Andre came, and J.B. took over, there is a lot to be optimistic about with this team moving forward. While there are still some unanswered questions, such as Darius Garland’s role with the team, how Dylan Windler will fit in once he is healthy, and obviously, if Andre Drummond will be in a Cleveland uniform starting next season. With another high draft pick coming their way, and a solid young core to build on, and potentially another All-Star being signed, the stars may be aligning for the Cavs to make moves in the Eastern Conference. And If nothing else, Andre has “Drummond” up interest for Northeast Ohio.