The Cavaliers may not be looking for an expensive superstar. While they weren’t willing to trade Garland for Ingram, the Cavs are clearly taking a patient approach to roster construction. Instead, Cleveland could look for a big veteran wing with a good playoff record.

In that case, Sporting News writer Nathaniel Holloway’s suggested trade partner Kyle Kuzma could be on the Cavs’ short list. Kuzma, a 2020 NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, led the Washington Wizards with 22.2 points and 6.6 rebounds per night last season. The 1.90 meter tall striker has earned a reputation as a solid but imperfect goalscorer. His efficiency is questionable, especially from deep, but Kuzma is a quality starting forward in most systems.

Although Holloway hasn’t suggested a specific move, this contract structure may be the most believable given the Wizards’ position in the league of looking for more youth.

Financially, there’s no easy way to fulfill Kuzma’s $23.5 million contract without losing a core Cavalier, but Cleveland would almost certainly reject any trade that splits the core in favor of Kuzma. However, dealing Isaac Okoro and rookie Jaylon Tyson could tempt the Wizards, as both players are strong young wingers who could complement Washington’s young core led by Bilal Coulibaly.

Georges Niang balances salaries and gives the Wizards an experienced leader.

On the court, Kuzma would assume the starting small forward role opposite Max Strus, giving the Cavs a big lineup out of the backcourt to compensate for Mitchell and Garland. Kuzma’s strength and size would make the Cavaliers a formidable opponent for any team, and his positional versatility could allow Cleveland to move Kuzma to the fourth position during times when Allen or Mobley are resting.

Despite some ineffective scoring, Kuzma was an integral part of the Lakers’ championship squad and could be a perfect addition to the Cavaliers for the right price. If the Cavaliers could pull off this trade, it would undoubtedly make them better. However, this is an unrealistic deal as the Wizards would prioritize future trade assets for Kuzma over unproven young players. Losing Tyson could also be a huge blow to the Cavs in the future if he develops into a high-end role player.

However, Kuzma’s value is hard to deny, making this hypothetical deal pretty decent. Still, the Cavs should probably pass and wait for a better option.