Report: Porzingis a primary target for Cavs in Irving talks
Could the Cleveland Cavaliers catch "The Unicorn"?
In light of Kyrie Irving's trade request, the Cavaliers are determined to land a young star in exchange for their starting point guard, and New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis has emerged as a primary target, league sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
The Cavs would reportedly have to take on Joakim Noah's albatross contract ($55 million over the next three years) in return, and it's unclear if they're willing to do so, making the scenario a "nonstarter" for New York.
In addition to Porzingis, the team is fixated on Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, Phoenix Suns swingman Josh Jackson, and Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray, according to Wojnarowski.
Related: Irving reportedly willing to commit to Spurs, but Cavs want younger players
When news of Irving's trade request emerged last month, it was reported the Knicks had "strong interest" in acquiring the 25-year-old All-Star, who grew up in New Jersey and included the Knicks on his list of preferred trade destinations.
It's believed New York is open to sending disgruntled veteran Carmelo Anthony and future first-round picks to Cleveland for Irving, while Porzingis is unavailable after a short stint on the trading block around the draft.
Wojnarowski indicated that other NBA teams question how firm the Knicks are on that stance, as there "continues to be distance" between the club and the 7-foot-3 Latvian, who skipped the team exit meeting because he was reportedly frustrated by its ineptitude and losing last season.
Related: Porzingis likes tweet about Irving playing for Knicks
Cleveland reportedly hopes New York will reconsider, as the 2016 champs have no use for LeBron James' 33-year-old Banana Boat buddy in Anthony at this time. Given James' unwillingness to commit to his hometown club long term, the Cavs would rather protect themselves in the long run in case he bolts again.
If they have to start over without both James and Irving, they could build around Porzingis. The versatile 22-year-old averaged 18.1 points on 45 percent shooting from the field and 35.7 percent from deep, to go along with 7.2 rebounds, two blocks, and 1.5 assists as a sophomore in 2016-17. He has two years remaining on his rookie deal.