The Cleveland Cavaliers aren’t expected to hold onto both of their 2025 NBA Draft picks. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst says the team will likely trade their second round picks to accomplish something else.
“Either try to package those picks to move up, or trade out altogether,” said Windhorst. “Put those picks together with someone on their roster to either get off of salary or do something else… I’d be surprised if they kept 49 and 58.”
This makes sense. The Cavs aren’t in a position to bank on second round talent. The likelihood of any second round prospect playing a meaningful role on the team next season is low. Packing these picks together to find something better would be a smart idea.
Which path the Cavs take will be interesting. They could potentially move into the first round and target a more coveted prospect. This would give them a cost-efficient way to add talent under the second apron. Of course, taking a chance on a rookie is going to be risky even if they move up in the draft order.
Cleveland could also package their picks along with a player such as Isaac Okoro to cut costs. The Cavs are reportedly shopping Okoro in what would likely be a salary dump. Attaching picks would make this easier — considering Okoro’s value isn’t very high right now.
I’d lean more towards moving up in the draft. Attaching picks to get off of Okoro doesn’t feel worth it, in my opinion. Okoro might not be a rotational player in the playoffs, but he’s not a negative asset. The 24-year-old is still a skilled enough defender and athlete to eat minutes throughout 82 games. Getting through the regular season is half the battle. Okoro helps you accomplish this.
Whatever they decide to do — it sounds like the Cavs will be moving their picks before draft day. Stay alert.
