The Cleveland Cavaliers are in a period transition after firing general manager Chris Grant. The team is being heavy shoppers before the trade deadline approaches in a week and most are not sure who will remain for the long-term and who is gone by Feb. 20. However, one thing the team is making clear to all buyers, Kyrie Irving is not going anywhere.
According to Sam Amico of FOX Sports, the Cavaliers are defining Irving's status with the team as "absolutely, positively untouchable." Viewed as the face of the franchise, Irving has not had the greatest of seasons from both a statistical and character standpoint. As Cleveland continues to make headlines for off-the-court behavior, many wonder just how committed the Cavaliers are to Irving for the long-term.
ESPN's Chad Ford reported the Cavaliers have been fearful that Irving will make a departure from Cleveland as quickly as possible, following in the footsteps of LeBron James. Contractually, Irving still has one more year remaining on his rookie deal. He would be a restricted free agent and forced to either sign a long-term deal or a qualifying offer. He could become an unrestricted free agent in 2016 depending on what he chooses, although a long-term deal would earn him the most money.
Dion Waiters may or may not be out by the deadline. The team has engaged in multiple discussions with teams regarding his status. Trade talks date all the way back to December regarding Waiters, but no move has been made.
According to Bob Finnan of the The Morning Journal & News-Herald reports the Cavaliers may try and remain committed to Waiters in hopes that he and Irving develop better chemistry on the court. Head coach Mike Brown believes good things are to come if everyone shows a bit of patience.
"They've had some moments where they've played very well together on the floor," Brown said. "They are two young guys trying to figure out how to play the right way themselves, no matter who else is out on the floor. They are getting better learning how to play with each other."
Brown's vote of confidence really means nothing considering he is coaching on thin ice at this point, but he does make a good point and Waiters and Irving could be the future. Players not in the future appear to include both Luol Deng and Anderson Varejao. Deng might not get traded, but is not expected to hang around once the offseason happens. Varejao could be gone by the deadline with the right deal.