Hours before the trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers completely shook up their roster on Thursday with several major moves.
Subsequently, this could lead to the return of a familiar face to the fold with veteran big man Kendrick Perkins possibly occupying one of the expected open roster spots, according to Mark Stein of the New York Times.
The addition of Perkins could be perceived as directly being a move of a player that James has much comfort playing alongside. This news comes shortly after reports that the _year-old was set to retire from his professional basketball career due to his stint with the Cavaliers’ G-League affiliate, Canton Charge, not seeing him being called up.
The slew of trades that Cleveland has made in the last few hours has changed the entire dynamic for the team. It has also opened up an opportunity for Perkins to make an impact and a strong case to remain on the active roster for the foreseeable future.
He had last played in the NBA two years ago in 37 games with the New Orleans Pelicans. He had been waived and did not receive any strong offers another team to continue his career. This had led to him taking up the chance to play for the Charge to make one last run at getting back into the league.
Perkins has plenty to offer the Cavaliers having had much playoff experience throughout his career having also played for the Boston Celtics and Oklahoma City Thunder. He may not be the player he once was, but he could provide much-need rim protection and stability in the frontcourt in the limited action that should receive likely off the bench.
That said, it will be interesting to see how the new-look Cavaliers will respond to these numerous trades that have brought many new faces such as Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr., George Hill, and Rodney Hood. If anything, it will make for an interesting second half of the year in Cleveland.
