The Eastern Conference has one ruler right now. And, no, it’s not the reigning champs. Instead, it’s Kenny Atkinson’s Cleveland Cavaliers. With an insane 19-3 run in the first phase of the 2024/25 Cavs are ready to fight for the championship. The team seems to have the perfect blend of players who fit into the HC plans. Well, their results speak for themselves. But, do the Cavs need some options for the bench? Some better alternatives for a stronger team maybe?

Coach Kenny Atkinson is keeping the trading news somewhat a secret. However, there are new rumors in the NBA-verse. Is ex-Lakers star, one-time champ, Kyle Kuzma on Cleveland’s radar? What? Well, the $102 million star’s talent with the ball is a known fact, but his current form should be a concern for any team looking to sign him. Moreover, aren’t the LA Lakers willing to bring him back? At least, that’s what the rumors say!

So, Brian Windhorst shared his thoughts and insights into this matter. He stated: “I don’t know how the Cavs are getting to a Kyle Kuzma trade. But I don’t think that really helps them. Although that is the size on the perimeter they need, a size you can defend, that’s not really what Kuzma is doing at this point in his career. The Cavs have very little draft assets to trade because they owe so much to the Jazz. They are a hair into the luxury tax.”

Well, to begin with, Kyle Kuzma’s run with the Washington Wizards this season hasn’t been great. He has missed several games and is averaging 15.8 ppg. Now, if we compare him to Kenny Atkinson’s superstar Donovan Mitchell’s 24.3ppg average, then it would be unfair. Also, because the Cavs are No. 1 in the East while the Wizards are struggling at 15th.

Moreover, Coach Atkinson needs to think wisely before a bid the Cavs owe the Utah Jazz draft picks in 2025, 2027, and 2-29, as well as the right to swap picks with the Cabs in 2026 and 2028. The Jazz received these picks in exchange for trading Donovan Mitchell to the Cavaliers before the 2022 season

Cleveland sits $1.8 million over the luxury tax—a manageable sum but a looming concern. The pressure is on to shed a smaller contract and dodge penalties. For a team chasing a title, that extra financial breathing room could be the edge they need. A bold move now might secure their future glory.

At present, what should be Kenny Atkinson’s priorities?

Writer, Sam Amico noted: “They would like to find, I’m sure, a backup big guy who could potentially fill in for Allen or Mobley.” HC, Kenny Atkinson’s motive should be to bring in players who can be the perfect rotations for Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley who often face the consequences of injury. Moreover, the ‘big guy’ could also find themselves in the starting lineup when Allen and Mobley aren’t available on the team.

“He could give them an extended rest. You know, they’re kind of relying on Dean Wade to do that now. Kenny Atkinson calls him six-nine-and-a-half. So, they really need some upfront size, particularly off the bench. I think that would be their priority when it comes to what they may be looking for.” Sam Amico indicated Larry Nance Jr. who could be that ‘big guy’ for Coach Kenny. He brings the experience and force, the Cavs need. But, which player would the team trade to acquire the said ‘dream hooper’?

Well, that’s a mystery we’ll let the Cavs solve. For now, Kenny Atkinson’s boys are doing a brilliant job of emerging as the strongest force in the NBA. But, rest assured, Kyle Kuzma is most unlikely to be on Cleveland’s watch. However, that’s for now unless more information drops in. Because anything can happen in the league most surprisingly!