Cavaliers predicted to sign $305M Future Hall of Famer, pivoting from NBA champ Jonathan Kuminga

Cavaliers predicted to sign $305M Future Hall of Famer, pivoting from NBA champ Jonathan Kuminga originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to create more options at the starting wing position, but their choices remain limited. They have been pursuing Golden State Warriors NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga for over a month, yet a deal has still not come together.

Cleveland remains interested in bringing Kuminga to the roster, but the biggest obstacle has been the contract he is seeking.

“Jonathan Kuminga is demanding a salary in free agency exceeding $20 million annually, per The Athletic. Kuminga prefers a sign-and-trade from the Hawks over leaving outright, simply due to the added financial implications. The Cavaliers and Lakers are the finalists for Kuminga,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.

With negotiations surrounding Kuminga becoming more complicated, the Cavaliers moved to add depth by signing former first-round pick Mario Hezonja.

“The Cleveland Cavaliers signed Mario Hezonja to a one-year, non-guaranteed deal with a trigger date, sources told hoopshype. His $2.8 million salary becomes fully guaranteed if he remains on the roster past November 15th. ESPN first reported an agreement for both sides,” HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto wrote.

Although Hezonja was a first-round pick, it remains unclear whether Cleveland views him as a potential starter. If the Cavaliers are still searching for a proven wing option, SI’s John Hobbs believes they could pursue six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan.

“After being waived by the Sacramento Kings last month, DeMar DeRozan definitely fits the bill in terms of a solid wing player. Even coming towards the latter stages of his career, DeRozan can still play. The idea of the Cavs being a contender in a vastly strengthened Eastern Conference this year will no doubt entice DeRozan, and you could argue that he would be favored in the starting lineup ahead of Mario Hezonja if he signed for Cleveland,” Hobbs wrote.

The Cavaliers would significantly improve their wing situation if they can convince DeRozan to join the team. The 17-year veteran is reportedly looking to play for a contender, and Cleveland certainly fits that description.

DeRozan has earned $305 million throughout his likely Hall of Fame career. Adding a proven veteran like DeRozan would give the Cavaliers another experienced scorer and help strengthen their championship aspirations heading into the season.

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