Should the Cavaliers Gamble on an Injured Larry Nance Jr. Ahead of the Trade Deadline?
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Cleveland Cavaliers find themselves in a favorable yet precarious position. With a solid core featuring Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley anchoring the frontcourt, the Cavs don’t have glaring holes but do have some depth concerns that could hinder their playoff aspirations. Specifically, Cleveland’s lack of reliable big men behind Allen and Mobley has raised eyebrows as the season progresses.
According to Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz, one intriguing solution to this issue could be a reunion with Atlanta Hawks forward Larry Nance Jr. The 32-year-old, who played a pivotal role during his initial stint with the Cavs, offers versatility, playoff experience, and the ability to defend multiple positions. But there’s a catch — Nance is currently sidelined indefinitely after undergoing hand surgery.
The Case for Nance
When healthy, Nance brings a unique skill set to the table. This season, he’s averaging 9.5 points and 4.3 rebounds in just under 20 minutes per game, showing he remains an efficient contributor. His defensive versatility, coupled with his ability to stretch the floor and play as an undersized center in certain lineups, could provide Cleveland with the depth they desperately need.
Additionally, Nance’s familiarity with the Cavaliers’ organization and his previous postseason experience in Cleveland make him an attractive option. He wouldn’t be expected to carry a heavy workload, but instead serve as a reliable bench piece who can provide key minutes in high-pressure moments.
The Risks of Reacquiring Nance
However, acquiring an injured player so close to the deadline comes with inherent risks. While Swartz notes that the Cavs don’t necessarily need Nance to contribute immediately, time is of the essence for any midseason addition to integrate into the lineup. Chemistry-building takes time, and waiting for Nance to recover could delay his impact.
There’s also the question of whether the Cavaliers should prioritize a fully healthy player who can immediately bolster their rotation. With the Eastern Conference shaping up to be a brutal gauntlet, Cleveland can’t afford to waste valuable time on a player who might not return to full strength in time for a postseason run.
Should the Cavs Take the Gamble?
Ultimately, Cleveland’s decision will likely hinge on the price Atlanta demands for Nance. If the cost is minimal, a low-risk, high-reward move for Nance could be worth exploring, even with his injury status. His ability to complement Allen and Mobley, provide depth, and serve as a veteran presence could outweigh the risk of his current absence.
But if other options arise—particularly healthier ones—the Cavaliers might be better served focusing their attention elsewhere. While a feel-good reunion with Nance is tempting, Cleveland must prioritize practicality over sentimentality as they prepare for the playoff grind.
With a few weeks left until the trade deadline, one thing is clear: the Cavaliers have an opportunity to solidify their roster. Whether Larry Nance Jr. becomes part of that equation remains to be seen, but the team must carefully weigh his potential impact against the uncertainties surrounding his health.
