Checking out the free agents most likely to capture the Cavaliers' summer interest
by Brian Windhorst/Plain Dealer Reporter
Saturday June 06, 2009, 10:30 PM
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Here's a look at some of the free agents the Cavs are likely to be taking a look at as they prepare for the signing season, which begins July 1. The Cavs will have their mid-level exception, which is estimated to be in the $5.5 million range ,that they can use in whole or in parts. They also have what is called the bi-annual exception, which is for $2 million and is for two years at maximum with the second season a player option.
CHARLIE VILLANUEVA, F, BUCKS
Villanueva is a restricted free agent, which means Milwaukee could match an offer and keep him. But the Bucks are paying big money to several other players and have another key player, Ramon Sessions, who is a free agent. They likely will not be able to afford both. There is a chance Villanueva, a classic stretch power forward at 6-11 who can score inside and out, can be had. He's young, has excellent size, and is coming off a career season. Some question his motor because he doesn't always defend well and sometimes appears soft. But he is exactly the type of player the Cavs need and he just might be coming into his own at age 24.
CARLOS BOOZER, F, JAZZ
Yes, you read that correctly. Boozer and James still have a good relationship and the former Cav has been right about one thing, he has matured into a star. He was sitting in front row seats at a Cavs-Magic game, seats that Dan Gilbert sat in the game before, so you be the judge on that. A strong low post scorer and top-shelf rebounder, he would fit in nicely. Getting him would take a sign-and-trade, and it would be hard to pull off. That and thousands of fans would freak out ... until his first 20-point, 15-rebound game. Remember there is a different owner and Duke-produced GM in town now.
JASON KIDD, G, MAVERICKS
Close with James, Kidd has hinted in the past he might want to play in Cleveland. The Cavs certainly will have interest, but he finished very strong with the Mavericks, who traded a young All-Star in Devin Harris for him. Dallas can pay more than the Cavs and they probably will offer more, which makes this somewhat of a long shot.
RASHEED WALLACE, F/C, PISTONS
He's considered an arch villain in Cleveland, but it is partially because of his talent. He's still got gas left in the tank, especially if you don't ask him to play 30 minutes a night. He's a long inside/out scorer who is a strong basket defender. Also fits the bill of what the Cavs need and he's got a great history matching up with Dwight Howard.
ANTONIO MCDYESS, F/C, PISTONS
The Cavs made an aggressive offer for McDyess when he was a free agent in November and they will probably call him again. Strong mid-range shooter and defender who has a personality that would fit in nicely with the team.
JOSH CHILDRESS, F, HAWKS
Most believe he'll be back from Greece and playing the NBA market again this summer. He's a restricted free agent, but the Hawks' situation has changed and he might not be in their plans. The type of long, smart wing defender the Cavs are in need of.
GRANT HILL, F, SUNS
Hill has said he doesn't want to leave Phoenix, but the Suns are in transition and Hill is a strong veteran coming off a solid season. He does have a Duke connection to Danny Ferry.
TREVOR ARIZA, G/F, LAKERS
Long and active perimeter defender who is a good shooter. An L.A. native, it would be hard to see him leaving, but the Lakers have salary-cap issues and free agent Lamar Odom to deal with.
ANTHONY PARKER, G/F, RAPTORS
A skilled wing player and solid mid-range shooter who has shown the ability to hold his own on defense. The Cavs chased Parker when he was a free agent three years ago.
MATT BARNES, F, SUNS
Another long and good-shooting wing player the Cavs could use. He will be on their list for sure, as the Suns might not be bringing him back. He was actually in training camp with the Cavs years ago.
