The Cavaliers begin training camp next week, and they still have not signed restricted free agents Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao.
The Cavs and Pavlovic are so far apart on a deal - according to Marc Cornstein, Pavlovic's agent - that Pavlovic may decide to play in Europe.
"That's something we have to explore," Cornstein said. "European teams have larger budgets, and the Euro is strong. I'm not doing my job if we don't explore all options."
There are reports that Dan Fegan, Varejao's agent, also will explore overseas options.
Since Varejao and Pavlovic are restricted free agents, the Cavs can match any offer sheet presented to either player. There's also the possibility of a sign-and-trade. Both could play this season on a one-year tender offer and become unrestricted free agents next summer.
That sounds unlikely for Pavlovic.
"Sasha has no intentions of signing a qualifying offer," Cornstein said. "Sasha had a good season. He became one of the core players that helped Cleveland get to the Finals. What we're looking for is not an unreasonable amount."
The threat of playing overseas sounds like a new bargaining chip for NBA players. Do you think anyone will do it?
The Cavs shouldn't overpay Varejao and Pavlovic. If you can get them for cheap that is great. But if they ask for too much just let them leave, other guys will easily take there place.
Those players are about as replaceable as they come.
Seriously guys, you're both getting close to my ignore list.
Gooden is capable of averaging 18 and 10 if he gets minutes that is good. Whenever I've seen play he is agressive attacking the rim and grabbing boards. He also hits the open 15-17 footer and he can finish at the rim. What is bad about that? Better than what most teams have.
Seriously guys, you're both getting close to my ignore list.
Esteban Batista is the leading rebounder in the FIBA America's Championship. His offensive game is more polished than Anderson Varejao and if you can give him major minutes he can average at least 12-14 PPG in the NBA.
The reason i dislike Varejao is because of his constant flopping and taking unnecessary shots in the playoffs. Batista will certainly improve the Cavaliers aging front line with his youth and potential.
I am still hoping for a sign of a Larry Hughes improvement next year but if will suck at the start of the season. Cavaliers should trade him to another team even if we get 2 decent role players in return.
Pavlovic and Varejo to Play Overseas?
