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Cavaliers Eye Naz Reid in Blockbuster Trade for All-Star Darius Garland

NBA access_alarms2025-05-30 08:16:33 visibility6 text_decrease title text_increase

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Table of Contents

Overview of the Proposed Deal

Multiple sources report the Cleveland Cavaliers are exploring a bold roster overhaul by engaging the Minnesota Timberwolves in talks to swap All-Star Guard Darius Garland for forward Naz Reid and a package of draft assets. This potential trade would address key needs for both teams while repositioning them ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Why Cleveland Would Make the Move

Addressing Frontcourt Weaknesses

The Cavaliers aim to strengthen their interior play after struggling against physical opponents in recent playoffs. Naz Reid (25) offers Versatility as a 6'10" center averaging 14.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and shooting 38.8% from three-point range in 2024-25. His ability to stretch defenses and switch assignments would complement Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

Cavaliers Eye Naz Reid in Blockbuster Trade for All-Star Darius Garland

Financial Flexibility

Reid's $13.98M contract through 2026 aligns better with Cleveland's long-term plans than Garland's $36.7M salary. This move creates cap space to re-sign restricted free agent Evan Mobley and pursue wing additions in Free Agency.

Minnesota's Motivation

Building Around Anthony Edwards

Acquiring Garland (24) provides a playmaking backcourt mate for Anthony Edwards. His elite pick-and-roll IQ (92nd percentile assist rate) and career 38.9% three-point shooting could elevate Minnesota's offense. Pairing him with Edwards creates one of the nba's most explosive backcourts.

Salary Cap Strategy

Trading Reid allows the Wolves to reduce luxury tax burdens caused by Karl-Anthony Towns ($43.7M) and Rudy Gobert ($41.3M). Shedding Reid's contract helps stay under the second tax apron while retaining flexibility for future moves.

Proposed Trade Package

Cleveland receives: Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels ($22.6M contract), 2025 first-round pick (top-10 protected)
Minnesota receives: Darius Garland, additional draft compensation

Risks & Considerations

Cleveland's Concerns

Naz Reid must maintain consistency defensively (ranked 69th percentile in rim protection) and reduce fouling (2.4 per game). His performance in high-leverage situations will determine this move's success.

Minnesota's Risks

Garland's defensive limitations (ranked 112th in defensive RPM) could expose vulnerabilities. The Wolves must ensure his playmaking doesn't disrupt Towns/Gobert's post-up dominance.

Conclusion

This high-stakes deal represents a strategic pivot for both teams. Cleveland bets on modern big-man versatility and financial Stability, while Minnesota risks its future on creating a generational backcourt duo. With the NBA offseason intensifying, this could define both franchises' paths toward championship contention.

Keywords: Cleveland Cavaliers, Darius Garland, Naz Reid, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA trades