Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue does not intend to make Channing Frye a regular part of his rotation this season, Cleveland.com’s Joe Vardon reports. Lue was apologetic to Frye for his decision, but the veteran big man was understanding of the situation.
“I was like man I’m sorry,” Lue said, recounting his conversation with Frye to reporters after the Cavaliers lost 102-94 to the Wizards in a preseason game Sunday. “(Frye) said, ‘listen, I’m very excited about our team, not too many opportunities to get to play on a team like this.'”
Lue also said Frye told him that “I have to wear a suit all season for us to win, that’s what I’ll do. Don’t worry about me, I’m going to continue to keep working. If you need me I’ll be ready.
“That’s the type of vet you want around,” Lue said. “Unbelievable character guy. He understands it’s a long season. There’s going to be opportunities.”
Lue has used Frye sparingly during the preseason for the Cavs. The 34-year-old is averaging just 4.3 points on 5-of-19 shooting in 13.7 minutes over the first three games.
The Cavs’ frontcourt rotation figures to be much different from last season. Tyronn Lue already plans to start Kevin Love at center in favor of Tristan Thompson, who will now move to the bench.
Meanwhile, newcomers Jae Crowder and Jeff Green, who are both younger and can provide more defensive versatility than Channing Frye, will likely take over the veteran’s minutes going forward.
