Cavaliers And Pacers Strike A Deal

The Cleveland Cavaliers have acquired Caris LeVert and Miami's 2022 second-round pick from the Indiana Pacers in exchange for Ricky Rubio, a lottery-protected 2022 first-round pick, 2022 second-round pick from the Houston Rockets, and 2027 second-round pick from the Utah Jazz.

Full trade: Indiana sends Caris LeVert and a 2022 second-round pick via Miami to Cleveland for Ricky Rubio, lottery-protected 2022 first-round pick, 2022 second-round pick via Houston and a 2027 second-round pick via Utah, per sources.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 6, 2022

LeVert has been linked to the Cavaliers and now, the hometown kid will have the chance to play for the Cavaliers. This is the kind of move that Cleveland needed to make, as they currently sport a 32-21 record and seem to be ready to go on a playoff run. Now, they have made their roster stronger on paper.

In 39 games this season, LeVert has averaged 18.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per contest. He should be an excellent addition to the Cavaliers with numbers like this. This is especially true when remembering that Cleveland has had a lot of injury trouble this campaign. Furthermore, he also offers versatility, as he can play both shooting guard and small forward.

Rubio is being moved solely to free up cap space for the Cavaliers. The 31-year-old was having a great season, but then sadly suffered a season-ending injury. The Pacers are getting some nice draft picks in this deal, so this also could end up being a good move for the rebuilding squad. At this time, they sport a 19-35 record, and this shouldn't be their last move before the deadline.

Alas, we have another big trade in the NBA. What's going to happen next? Stay tuned.