As it appears, the Cleveland Cavaliers are in dire need of some added depth in their frontcourt. Not long after the Cavs struck a deal with Anderson Varejao, it has now been confirmed that Cleveland is also set to sign 6-foot-9 big man Mfiondu Kabengele to a long-term extension.
This report comes via Kelsey Russo of The Athletic:
On Friday it was reported that the Cavs had agreed to terms with Varejao on a rest-of-the-season deal. This marks the return of the 38-year-old veteran to the NBA after being away from the league for the past four years. Varejao is a well-loved figure in Cleveland having spent the first 12 seasons of his career with the Cavs.
For his part, however, Kabengele is not exactly a household name. For those that require an introduction, Kabengele is a 23-year-old power forward/center who hails from Florida State. He was selected 27th overall by the Brooklyn Nets during the 2019 NBA Draft but he ended up playing his rookie year with the Los Angeles Clippers.
Prior to this season’s trade deadline, the Clippers traded Kabengele to the Sacramento Kings who themselves waived him not long after. Kabengele signed a 10-day deal with the Cavs on April 10th, which was succeeded by a second 10-day contract. He took full advantage of the opportunity that was given to him and he has now been rewarded with a long-term deal by the squad.
In seven games played for Cleveland this season, Kabengele has averaged 3.4 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 9.4 minutes off the bench.
