NBA Rumors: Cavaliers Expected To Re-Sign Wing In Free Agency

He was one of the most rumored names to be available from the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster at the trade deadline. But now, in a complete 180, it seems that the Cavs are intent on re-signing wing Caris LeVert in free agency to a long-term deal. That's the word from Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com.

A free agent at the end of the year, the Cavs are interested in bringing [LeVert] back on a multi-year deal -- at the right price. They like him. They value him. He is one of their trusted high-minute guys -- a staple of (head coach JB) Bickerstaff’s nightly rotation. Bickerstaff has repeatedly commended LeVert for his unselfishness, sacrifice, character and adaptability. 

 The Cavs, as noted by Fedor, control LeVert's Bird rights, so they are free to go over the cap to retain him. But lose him in free agency, and they won't have the cap room to adequately replace him. 

The 28-year-old is earning $18.8M on his expiring deal. 

LeVert's overall scoring numbers are down a bit this season, as he's averaging 11.9 points per game (down from a 14.1 career average), but his shot from deep has improved, as he's hitting on 37.7% of his threes, a career-high. On top of that, he's been stepping things up this month, averaging 14 points with a 47.6% mark from downtown. 

"Given everything, at this point," sums up Fedor, "LeVert not returning would be a surprise."

Photo: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports