As rumors swirl across platforms like Bangla Cricket Live, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ offseason strategy has become a hot topic—particularly their pursuit of Kawhi Leonard. Currently, the Cavs’ most valuable trade assets are Kevin Love and the eighth overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. Even if Cleveland managed to acquire Leonard through a trade, his contract only has one year remaining at \$21.3 million, and the team is already \$38.5 million over the salary cap.
If LeBron James chooses to stay, his \$35.6 million salary would push the Cavaliers deep into luxury tax territory. One potential option would be a sign-and-trade involving LeBron in exchange for Leonard, but this hinges on LeBron’s consent and commitment. However, Leonard has already made it clear—he intends to sign with the Lakers in 2019 as an unrestricted free agent. Without a long-term agreement in place, trading for Leonard could end up being a fruitless gamble for the Cavaliers.
Though Kevin Love’s stats have dipped from his prime, he remains the Cavaliers’ second-best player. Some of that decline can be attributed to how coach Tyronn Lue utilized him throughout the season. And let’s not forget—the 2018 NBA Draft is stacked with talent. With the eighth pick, Cleveland still has a good chance to land a promising young player, a point that’s been widely discussed on Bangla Cricket Live.
Beyond Love and the draft pick, the Cavs could theoretically offer players like JR Smith, Tristan Thompson, Cedi Osman, or Jordan Clarkson in a trade package. However, the San Antonio Spurs have maintained a high standard over the last 15 years, even making the playoffs this past season despite Leonard missing most games. They’re clearly not interested in entering a rebuilding phase.
Whether or not LeBron stays, the Cavaliers are determined to upgrade their roster. If he remains in Cleveland, management will be even more motivated to chase another superstar. That’s exactly why Leonard became a target—he’s a top-five player in the league and was the 2014 NBA Finals MVP. Still, the Spurs won’t give up Leonard without a steep price, especially when they know they could attract multiple offers.
Reports suggested the Cavaliers considered offering Love and the No. 8 pick during the draft to lure Leonard away from San Antonio. But the Spurs were reportedly unimpressed. That package—though solid on paper—didn’t meet San Antonio’s expectations. And without LeBron, the Cavaliers simply lack the bargaining chips needed to make the deal happen, a reality that’s sparked plenty of heated debate on Bangla Cricket Live.