Halfway through the2021-22 NBA season, we’ve already seen many surprises. For instance, the fantastic start of the Cleveland Cavaliers, or the weak, inconsistent first months of the new-look Los Angeles Lakers.
However, while LeBron James and company are struggling to get things going, the Cavs have suffered a huge blow recently with theseason-endinginjury of Ricky Rubio, who suffered a torn ACL in his left knee.
According to ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the Cavaliers have moved fast to replace the veteran playmaker and a trade for Rajon Rondo could be completedbefore the weekend.
NBA Trade Rumors: Cavalierscould trade for Lakers’ Rajon Rondo
“The sides are working out terms on a deal, but the Cavaliers need to create a roster spot to make room for Rondo,” Woj wrote.“The Cavaliers could include a minimum-contract player in the deal with Los Angeles, or waive a player and complete the trade using a second-round pick or cash. The Cavaliers also have a trade exception that can absorb Rondo’s $2.6 million salary.
“The Lakers don’t have to take back matching salary in the deal because Rondo is on a minimum contract, and could take back a non-guaranteed deal that they could waive,” he continued. “The trade is expected to open up a roster spot for the Lakers.”
However, the Cavs will have to wait for Rondo to be cleared fromthe NBAhealth and safety protocolshe entered on Sunday. The 35-year-old’s level this season hasn’t been close to that of Rubio, but with the Spaniard out for the remainder of the season, the Cavsseem to be optimistic on what the four-time NBA All-Starcould bring to Cleveland.
