Dwyane Wade and LeBron James (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
The Cleveland Cavaliers could consider pursuing Pau Gasol and Dwyane Wade in free agency as the defending champs start to reload their lineup for a back-to-back NBA title bid.
The Cavs approach their next step to defending their title next season when the team attempts to pursue free agents this summer.
With the LeBron James expected to remain in Cleveland despite opting out of his $24 million player option with the Cavs, the champs can focus on luring top free agents to join them in another shot at NBA success. According to Brad Weiss of Sports Illustrated's Fansided, Chicago Bulls center Pau Gasol and Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade are among the free agents the Cavs should pursue this summer.
Gasol, who is set to opt of his three-year $22.3 million with the Bulls to explore free agency, is expected to join contenders in free agency for another shot at a title run. The Cavs, fresh off a historic championship victory, would give the Spaniard the best chance to compete for a title, especially if the team secures James for the next season.
Gasol, who averaged 16.5 points and 11.0 rebounds per game last season for the Bulls, would instantly boost the Cavs' frontcourt with his size and ability to score inside the paint and distribute the ball. However, Gasol has also drawn interests from other teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, who are reportedly making the two-time NBA champs their a "priority" in free agency.
On the other hand, Wade would be a very intriguing acquisition for the Cavs as it would spark yet another potential super team with close buddy LeBron.
"James left Cleveland to go to Miami before the 2010-11 season, and now it may be Wade's turn to do the opposite," Weiss wrote.
"LeBron and Wade are the closest of friends, and LBJ may be able to persuade Wade to come to Cleveland for another shot at a ring. If the Miami Heat try to low-ball Wade this off-season, he would nicely fill the role left vacant if J.R. Smith leaves Cleveland."
There is certainly a huge chance of James attracting top free agents to come to Cleveland after wheeling the Cavs to their first NBA championship.
Despite displaying flashes of his vintage form last season that helped the Heat to a deep playoff run, Wade is still unlikely to get a max contract, given his aging body. Moreover, Wade's initial talks with the Heat have stalled, forcing him to consider fielding outside offers in July, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst.
The Heat have the cap space to offer Wade a max deal, but the team's money may be reserved to pursue Kevin Durant or retain Hassan Whiteside, who also seeks a max contract this summer. Other teams would probably show interest in signing Wade, but the Cavs should be his top destination outside of Miami.
With a potential lineup of Wade, James, Irving and Gasol, along with other key free agents, the Cavs have a great chance to repeat as NBA champs. However, Cleveland has a very limited cap space, and would only make such scenario possible if Gasol and Wade take less money and the Cavs trade Kevin Love and some of the players in their core.
Nevertheless, the Cavs could certainly be an attractive destination for free agents this summer. And with James likely staying, it is only a matter of time before the Cavs add one or two stars looking for another chance to win a title.
