NBA Rumors: Cleveland Cavaliers ‘lukewarm’ on Al Horford
The Cleveland Cavaliers certainly lucked out when they won the NBA’s Draft Lottery and received the number one overall pick.
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Although this could be the best draft in a few years with potential star power at the top, the Cavaliers would probably rather deal the pick for a veteran. One player they would love to get their hands on is Minnesota Timberwolves’ power forward Kevin Love.
Because Love almost assuredly wouldn’t re-sign with the Cavaliers, they may turn their attention elsewhere and are interested in but could chase several other All-Star big men, including the Chicago Bulls’ Joakim Noah, the Portland Trail Blazers’ LaMarcus Aldridge and the Atlanta Hawks’ Al Horford.
However, according to Sam Amick of Fox Sports Ohio, the Cavaliers are “lukewarm” on Horford and both Noah and Aldridge are nearly unattainable.
"An ESPN report mentioned Bulls center Joakim Noah, Hawks center Al Horford and Trail Blazers forward LaMarcus Aldridge as potential Cavs targets. But sources told FOX Sports Ohio on Wednesday the acquisition of Noah is extremely unlikely. Also, the Cavs’ feelings on Horford were described as “lukewarm.”The Cavs are indeed interested in Aldridge, but it’s hard to envision the Blazers being open to moving him after their magical season. Aldridge was great all season and particularly remarkable in the playoffs. His price would be very high."
Noah averaged 12.6 points, 11.3 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.5 blocks and 1.2 steals per game and was named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year. Aldridge put up 23.2 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.0 blocks per game. Horford was limited to just 29 games in the 2013-2014 season, averaging 18.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.5 blocks per game.