The Cleveland Cavaliers could consider adding Mario Chalmers as main backup for Kyrie Irving.
The Cavs could consider bringing in another one of LeBron James' former teammates during the star's stint with the Miami Heat. After the summer acquisition of Chris Andersen, who played an essential role in the Heat's success over the past few years, Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com believes the Cavs could consider Mario Chalmers to assume backup point guard duties for the team.
"If it becomes clear the [DeAndre] Liggins can't handle the position, and [Kay] Felder's growth is stunted in any way, I could see Cole or maybe Mario Chalmers. Already over the $94 million salary cap by leaps and bounds, the Cavs would prefer not to have to pay for either player. But they may have to," Vardon wrote.
With Cole signing a $5 million contract with Chinese ball club Shandong Golden Stars, adding Chalmers becomes a viable option for the defending champs.
After more than seven years playing for the Heat, Chalmers was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies last season, where the 30-year-old point guard averaged 10.8 points and 3.8 assists per game before being sidelined by an Achilles injury. But with Chalmers just a month away from returning from his surgically-repaired right Achilles, he could certainly make an impact for a contending team like the Cavs.
Chalmers' value for the Cavs would be more than just playmaking duties off the bench. Chalmers, who helped the James and the Heat to win two NBA championships, would provide the Cavs leadership and championship experience, helping in mentoring guards like Felder and Liggins.
Chalmers would also seamlessly fit in playing for the Cavs as he was when he played next to James in Miami. He plays effectively as a defender and spot-up shooter next to James and could contribute well even without the ball in his hands.
It remains to be seen whether the Cavs would truly consider signing Chalmers, but Vardon also reported recently that Cleveland is indeed looking to add point guard depth and includes the two-time NBA champ in their list. While the Cavs are in "no rush" to explore signing Chalmers, it is something the team should ponder about if they wish to improve their roster for this season.
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