CLEVELAND — Editor's note: the Locked On Cavs instant take in the video above is from March 15, 2021.
It's been exactly one month since the Cleveland Cavaliers made the decision to sit center Andre Drummond as they seek a trade for the two-time All-Star.
But while many have anticipated the Cavs will ultimately wind up parting ways with Drummond via a release or buyout after the deadline, that isn't Cleveland's first preference. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Cavs remain hopeful they will be able to get at least one asset back for Drummond, even if it's as little as a second-round pick.
"The Lakers and Nets are believed to be Drummond’s top suitors should he receive a contract buyout after the trade deadline, but the Cavaliers are steadfast about finding a trade for the center," Charania reported on Monday. "The Cavaliers have so far sought an asset back in any Drummond deal -- such as a second-round pick, sources said -- but rival teams are skeptical about Cleveland’s ability to find one in a trade."
The biggest hold-up in the Cavs' ability -- or lack thereof -- to deal Drummond is his $28.7 million salary. Not only is that a lot of money for any prospective trade partner to take on, but any such deal would require Cleveland's return to relatively match Drummond's salary, which could ultimately wind up being cost-prohibitive for the Cavs.
Yet despite its difficulty in finding a deal, Cleveland continues to search for a trade partner for Drummond ahead of the March 25 deadline. In 25 games -- all starts -- this season, the 27-year-old Drummond has averaged 17.5 points and 13.5 rebounds.
More Cleveland Cavaliers coverage:
On Monday's Locked on Cavs Chris Manning and Evan Dammarell dive into a bad weekend for the Cavs with a focus on Sunday's loss to the Hawks, Friday's loss to the Pelicans and Kevin Love's injury in just his second game back.
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