The Cleveland Cavaliers and the Utah Jazz are eyeing a possible deal involving Andrew Bynum and Richard Jefferson after the Cavs talks with the Los Angeles Lakers stalled on Friday, according to ESPN.com.
For the Jazz, swapping Jefferson for Bynum gives them the opportunity to wipe away $6 million this season if they are able to waive the center by 5 p.m. on January 7. The Cavs, on the other hand, are interested in acquiring Jefferson who is shooting a respectable 42% from the three-point area and could upgrade the team's small forward position. The Cavs currently have a 11-21 record.
If the Cavs and Jazz fail to complete the proposed Bynum for Jefferson deal, sources close to ESPN said the Cleveland franchise could continue to talk with Lakers in hopes of pulling off the Bynum-for-Pau Gasol deal. It could also keep Bynum beyond the January 7 deadline and perhaps deal him in February, or even in the offseason.
By keeping Bynum in their line-up this season, the Cavs would have to fully guarantee the center's $12 million contract. Yet league sources said Bynum's contract becomes an attractive trade piece for the June draft or after it because his $12.5 million salary next season is fully non-guaranteed. This means that a team that trades for Bynum in July can save $12.5 million if they release him and he clears waivers before July 10.
ESPN.com reports that the demands of Utah for the deal are far more modest compared to that of the Lakers, which is said to be wanting a young player or a future first round pick in exchange of Gasol something that the Cavs are reluctant to give.
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