NBA free agency is set to open in a few days’ time and naturally, the rumors are at an all-time high. The Cleveland Cavaliers have not been spared from the buzz as one of their key rotation players is now being linked to the Detroit Pistons.
According to league insider Sam Amico of Hoops Wire, the Pistons could be in line to steal away Caris LeVert from the Cavs in free agency. Detroit is reportedly eyeing Brooklyn Nets power forward Cam Johnson as their primary target, and LeVert could emerge as their backup plan should their Johnson pursuit fall through:
“Detroit is expected to target Cavaliers guard/forward Caris LeVert if they strike out on Johnson, sources told Hoops Wire,” Amico wrote.
LeVert, who pocketed $18.8 million last season with the Cavs, is now set to enter NBA free agency. This is after his current deal ended at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season.
The 6-foot-6 swingman had his first full campaign with the Cavs this past year, putting up averages of 12.1 points on 43.1 percent shooting, 3.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.0 steals, while also connecting on 1.7 triples per contest. LeVert isn’t exactly a star but the fact that he averaged 30.2 minutes per contest across 74 appearances last season speaks volumes of his crucial role in Cleveland’s rotation.
At this point, it remains to be seen if the Cavs intend to extend Caris LeVert’s deal. If they don’t, it’s likely that it’s not only going to be the Pistons who will be monitoring his free agency situation.