Deron Williams plans to join the Cavs, according to the Associated Press
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LeBron James wanted a playmaker to help the Cleveland Cavaliers' second unit.
Deron Williams is ready to be that guy.
The Dallas Mavericks waived Williams on Thursday, and the five-time All-Star i
s now looking to join the Cavaliers as they pursue a second straight champions
hip, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press. The p
erson spoke on condition of anonymity because Williams has to clear waivers be
fore signing with Cleveland.
Williams averaged 13.1 points and 6.9 assists for the Mavericks this season. T
he 32-year-old is in his 12th season and loved playing in Dallas. But the Mave
ricks resume play after the All-Star break on Friday night in Minnesota sittin
g in 12th in the Western Conference.
Teaming up with James, whom Williams played with on Team USA, would thrust him
into the championship hunt.
James said earlier this season that the Cavaliers were in need of another play
maker off the bench to backup starter Kyrie Irving. Matthew Dellavedova filled
that role beautifully for the Cavs during runs to the NBA Finals the previous
two seasons, but he left for a big contract with the Milwaukee Bucks last sum
mer.
The Cavs have been searching for a suitable replacement ever since, and the la
ck of one has caused coach Tyronn Lue to play James heavy minutes for much of
the year.
Williams has dealt with ankle injuries and he missed eight games at the end of
January into the early part of February with a sprained big toe on his left f
oot. But he played in the final three games before the break, and should be he
althy and ready to help the Cavaliers.
Playing behind Irving will also reduce the physical toll on Williams, who can
provide some scoring punch while the Cavaliers await the returns of injured st
arters Kevin Love and J.R. Smith.
In waiving Williams, the Mavericks are handing the reins to Yogi Ferrell at po
int guard. Ferrell impressed enough while under a 10-day contract to earn a tw
o-year deal.
Williams will receive the full remainder of his contract after being waived as
opposed to reaching a buyout agreement with Dallas.