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Iman Shumpert Trade Rumors: Latest News, Speculation on Cavaliers SG

Mike Chiari

While the start of the 2016-17 NBA regular season is quickly approaching, the Cleveland Cavaliers may be open to making a significant roster change in the form of moving shooting guard Iman Shumpert.

Continue for updates.


Report: 'Multiple Teams' Interested in Shumpert

Friday, Oct. 21

According to ESPN.com's Zach Lowe, the Minnesota Timberwolves are among several teams who have inquired about Shumpert's availability, and the Cavs may be willing to listen.

The 26-year-old Shumpert appeared in 54 regular-season games for the Cavaliers in 2015-16, averaging 5.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.0 steals per contest. He also put up 3.3 points per game in 21 playoff appearances for the world champions.

Shumpert's best asset is his perimeter defense, as he is often tasked with defending the opposition's top perimeter players.

While Cleveland has some depth at shooting guard and small forward in the form of Jordan McRae, J.R. Smith, Mike Dunleavy, Richard Jefferson and James Jones, most of them are more offensively inclined than they are defensive stalwarts.

As pointed out by Luke Adams of HoopsRumors.com, any desire the Cavs may have to trade Shumpert could be financially motivated since he is set to make $9.6 million this season. Striking that from the books would lower Cleveland's luxury tax payment.

Shumpert helps make the Cavaliers a complete team due to his length and athleticism defensively, though, and replacing that would be a tall order this close to the start of the regular season.

           

Follow @MikeChiari on Twitter.

   

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