The Cleveland Cavaliers are expected to pursue a trade for Los Angeles Clippers shooting guard Jamal Crawford if their on-going contract talks with J.R Smith wouldn't materialize, according to Chris Haynes of Media Group Ohio.
Crawford is believed to be interested in joining the Cavaliers after the Clippers pulled off a series of moves (the acquisition of Lance Stephenson via trade and Paul Pierce through trade) that would further diminish his role with the team.
In his report, Haynes seems very much sure Crawford is targeting a potential move to the Cavaliers, who would welcome the two-time Sixth Man of the Year winner with open arms if their contract negotiation with Smith ends up nowhere.
I know Jamal personally. And I know he would definitely like to be a part of the Cavaliers' organization. Jamal is one guy off the top of my head that I know would be a fit, and I know that they'll be looking at him," Haynes said of Crawford's preference to play alongside LeBron James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving in a Cavaliers team projected to be among title contenders next season.
Although many NBA insiders expect Smith to eventually re-sign with the Cavaliers, Fox Sports Sam Amico reported there's one team willing to place a significant offer on the table for Smith, and it's the Philadelphia 76ers.
If Smith picks more money in Philadelphia over the opportunity to contend for a title in Cleveland, the Cavs are prepared to use the trade exception ($10.5MM) they gained from trading Brendan Haywood to Portland Trail Blazers in another trade with the Clippers for Crawford.
Crawford will earn $5.6MM in the final year of his current contract, which fits into the Cavs' trade exception. This Crawford to Cavaliers trade scenario has been hovering on and off the radar for quite some time, but it is expected to generate more steam once the Cavs severed their ties with Smith.