Cleveland Cavaliers rumors: Cavs hopeful Brendan Haywood can play
On draft night, the Cleveland Cavaliers acquired Brendan Haywood and the 45th-overall pick, which was used on former Stanford Cardinal power forward Dwight Powell, from the Charlotte Hornets for swingman Alonzo Gee.
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The Cavaliers, who are looking for a big man, weren’t hopeful Haywood could go but according to Terry Pluto of The Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Cavaliers think Haywood may be able play this season – and fairly soon.
"1. Brendan Haywood was in town and the 7-footer is in excellent shape in terms of weight and body fat. He had surgery to repair a broken foot last October, and missed the entire season. The Cavs weren’t sure if he could play this season — or at least not until January. Now, they are hopeful it will be sooner.2. Haywood played with Shawn Marion in Dallas when the Mavs won the 2011 title — beating Miami. Marion raved about Haywood when the Cavs were courting the small forward. Haywood said he plans to keep working hard on his rehabilitation."
Haywood last saw action for the Charlotte Bobcats (Hornets) in the 2012-2013 season (he did not play last season). He played in 61 games, putting up 3.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game while shooting 43.1% from the field and 45.5% from the free throw line. In his 12-year NBA career, the former North Carolina Tar Heel has averaged 6.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game while shooting 52.8% from the floor and 58.7% from the free throw line.
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