The Cleveland Cavaliers are eyeing a splash at the trade deadline, but Kemba Walker will be a challenge to acquire from the Charlotte Hornets.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that while the Cavs are staying persistent in constructing a deal for Walker, there is “no traction.”
Despite the Hornets making Walker available, their front office will be reluctant to part with such an affordable All-Star. According to Basketball Insiders, Walker is due $12 million both this season and next before his contract expires.
But there’s a big difference between seeking a trade and being open to one. Charlotte doesn’t need to move Walker right now.
Cleveland, which is also interested in Los Angeles Clippers center DeAndre Jordan, would absolutely need to include the 2018 first-round pick of the Brooklyn Nets in a deal. The Hornets could receive Isaiah Thomas in return, but he’ll be an unrestricted free agent this summer.
While the situation is worth monitoring, expectations about a blockbuster deal involving Walker and the Cavs should be tempered.