Ahead of Thursday’s NBA Trade Deadline, HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto reports that Isaac Okoro, a forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers, is a player to watch.
Although Okoro is a capable defensive wing who can contribute just enough on offence, the Cavaliers might have to contend with the luxury tax come playoff time. Any decision Cleveland makes with the 2020 lottery selection, who is earning $8.9 million this season, may take that into consideration.
As the Cavs are presently ranked second in the Eastern Conference, improving would seem to be the driving force behind their transaction. The Indiana Pacers, who made a significant acquisition earlier this season when they signed Pascal Siakam, are one team that is apparently considering possible transactions involving Okoro.
“With that in mind, Okoro is expected to draw interest at the trade deadline,” said Scotto. “The Knicks, Hawks, Pacers, Suns and Bucks are all teams to closely monitor as all are known to have interest in acquiring a two-way wing, league sources told HoopsHype.”
In the 2020 NBA Draft, Pacers players Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith, Obi Toppin, and Jalen Smith were taken; Okoro was the fifth overall pick. That age range of contributors is ideal for Indiana’s timeline.
Okoro would fit in wherever because he is an excellent wing defender, particularly on the outside. Lately, the blue and gold have improved their defence, and the Siakam-Nesmith combination has been effective in shutting down opposing frontcourts. But if the Pacers could make it off, adding Okoro as additional skill would be beneficial.
Salary matching would be difficult. More challenging is the requirement that a deal make sense for the Cavaliers as well. A trade involving more Cleveland players or a third team might make sense, but trades get more challenging to arrange the more parties involved.
This season, Okoro is averaging 8.8 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. He’s making more than 37% of his outside shots and shooting 49.2% from the field. The Auburn graduate has spent his whole professional career with Cleveland.
Indiana’s current record is 28–23. The current NBA season’s trading deadline is this Thursday.
