The Cleveland Cavaliers are entering a crucial time with their franchise star Kyrie Irving. The point guard was originally drafted to make fans forget about LeBron James leaving in free agency, but now Irving could possibly make the same exit sooner rather than later. With a max contract on the line and a No. 1 draft pick to utilize, the Cavaliers must decide what direction their franchise is headed.
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Cavaliers are hesitant to commit a max contract to Irving, but even if they did, he might not sign it. Columnist Peter Vecsey notes that the Cavaliers' hesitation stems from the chance that Irving might turn down the offer, a real possibility. That would make the franchise look pretty bad in the process. Irvings deal could fall in the range of $90-95 million which would take up a large amount of salary cap space, but would also be a lot of money to simply walk away from too.
If Irving falls on the trade block, several teams will chase him. According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, the Los Angeles Lakers believe they could make a real run at the point guard, but only if they get salary cap relief in the form of Steve Nash retiring. The New York Knicks could also be an option with Raymond Felton being shown the door. Carmelo Anthony would benefit from the young point guard on the court. However, both teams lack draft picks, something that would have to be included in any deal.
In an effort to make their franchise star happy, the Cavaliers are aiming to use their No. 1 draft pick and will likely select Andrew Wiggins No. 1. ESPN's Chad Ford reports that Wiggins has been told by the team that he is leading the pack and stands a good chance at getting drafted first. There are questions as to whether or not he would be a good fit over someone like Joel Embiid or Jabari Parker, but Cleveland sounds sold.
Irving will be watching every move the Cavaliers make this offseason. The point guard led the team in just about every statistical category and despite having smaller numbers this year, he is their best player since the James era ended. Keeping him in Cleveland and happy is crucial and it might take more than the No. 1 draft pick to do so.
The Cavaliers have been linked to several big moves this offseason including a trade for Kevin Love and re-signing James. Both are highly unlikely to happen, but owner Dan Gilbert will not go down without a fight. Getting either player would certainly be a step in the right direction and might get Irving to agree to a max deal.