CLEVELAND, Ohio (92.3 The Fan) – Cleveland Cavaliers general manager Koby Altman struck a deal before the NBA trade deadline hit at 3 p.m. Thursday, and it was a big surprise.
Altman and the Cavs acquired center Andre Drummond from the Detroit Pistons for John Henson, Brandon Knight and a 2023 second round draft pick. That selection will be the “lesser of Golden State or Cleveland's” according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
“If there’s one thing I learned about the NBA, there’s no friends or loyalty. I’ve given my heart and soul to the Pistons, and to be have this happen with no heads up makes me realize even more that this is just a business! I love you Detroit...” Drummond tweeted, “you will always have a special place in my heart! But on to the next @cavs hope you’re ready! Let’s finish the year off the right way.”
Both Knight and Henson have expiring contracts. Knight is making $15.6 million and Henson $9.7 million while Drummond, who is making $27 million this season, has a player option next season for $28.75 million.
The 6-foot-10 Drummond is a two-time All-Star that currently leads the league in rebounding and double-doubles this season.
Drummond gives first year head coach John Beilein some needed size.
Drummond is averaging 17.8 points and 15.8 rebounds in 49 games this season ranking 10th in the NBA in blocks at 1.7 per game and third in steals with 2.0 per contest.
Despite rumors leading up to the deadline surrounding forward Tristan Thompson, the Cavs did not move the veteran, who is in the final year of his contract.
