Cavaliers expected to part ways with $117M 13-year veteran to make room for Peyton Watson

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been pursuing NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga for most of the summer as they look to acquire a starting wing. However, that pursuit has been largely unsuccessful, with Kuminga seeking a contract that Cleveland has not been willing to offer.

Cleveland officially put the Kuminga idea on hold last week and instead checked in with the Denver Nuggets about a potential sign-and-trade for restricted free-agent forward Peyton Watson.

“Meanwhile, the Cavaliers have recently called to express interest in a sign-and-trade for Denver Nuggets restricted free-agent forward Peyton Watson, league sources told HoopsHype," HoopsHype's Michael Scotto wrote.

It has become clear what Cleveland is trying to do over the last week. Instead of continuing to prioritize a deal for Kuminga to become their next young star, the Cavaliers have put their focus on Watson.

“The Cavaliers appear to be prioritizing Peyton Watson now over Jonathan Kuminga as their Plan B wing option after missing out on LeBron James. Cleveland would offer Max Strus or Dennis Schröder alongside a future swap. The Nuggets remain in a serious bind due to apron issues," NBA reporter EvanSidery wrote.

However, if the Cavaliers want to land Watson, they are going to have to create some financial flexibility on their roster. Cleveland is reportedly shopping veteran Dennis Schröder as it looks to clear room for a potential deal.

“The Cavaliers are actively exploring scenarios to offload Dennis Schröder as they make progress on a sign-and-trade with the Nuggets for Peyton Watson. Cleveland is aggressively pursuing Watson as their key wing addition. Schröder could soon be on his 12th NBA team in 14 years,” Sidery posted.

If the Cavaliers can get Schröder off the books, it would be a major development in their pursuit of Watson. The NBA champion is on the verge of becoming an elite 3-and-D wing, which would give Cleveland another versatile player on both ends of the floor.

Schröder has made $117 million throughout his career. Cleveland knows the veteran provides valuable experience and leadership, but Watson fills a much bigger positional need for the organization right now. Moving on from Schröder could be the key to helping Cleveland complete a sign-and-trade for Watson.

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