Brendan Haywood played a grand total of 22 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers this season, and only two minutes in their playoff run to an NBA Finals appearance. But he may still be key asset in helping to enhance their roster.
The Cavs have dangled Haywood and their first-round pick in next week's draft to upgrade at other positions, according to Brian Windhorst of ESPN.
The value of Haywood's contract comes from the fact it's not guaranteed next year if he's waived by Aug. 2. That could be attractive for any team looking to shed salary while gaining immediate flexibility, as Haywood's deal is for $10.5 million next season. The Cavaliers have reportedly made Haywood available for either a player or a draft pick.
If the Cavs package Haywood and the 24th pick, it could be an attractive offer for another team - a first-rounder and essentially a bought-out contract.
Cleveland would like to upgrade in the backcourt, providing some depth behind point guard Kyrie Irving. While it remains a secondary concern behind the opt-out likelihoods of LeBron James and Kevin Love, as well as the restricted free agency of Tristan Thompson and Iman Shumpert, cult hero Matthew Dellavedova is also a restricted free agent.
The Cavs can't officially trade their first rounder until after the draft.
Haywood, a 35-year-old 7-foot center, is a 14-year NBA veteran.
