Finally the Cleveland Cavaliers have taken in a player that makes sense.
News about the Cavaliers interested in getting Timofey Mozgov finally materialized as the Cavs fill the void vacated by Anderson Varejao who has been ruled out for the season due to injury (Achilles injury). In return the Cavs gave up two first-round draft picks to the Denver Nuggets.
The news comes as a bit of surprise considering the Nuggets were not keen on parting with Mozgov initially. Regardless, it will be a reunion of sorts for Mozgov as he joins head coach David Blatt in Cleveland. Mozgov previously played under Blatt for the Russian national squad.
To his credit, Mozgov holds a four-year NBA career average of 8.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks.
Mozgov's acquisition is the second key transaction for the Cavaliers this month. Earlier, the Cavs parted with Dion Waiters in a three-team deal with the OKC Thunder and the New York Knicks. From that deal, the Cavs were able to get NBA veteran J.R. Smith and Imam Shumpert.
On the acquisition of Mozgov, general manager David Griffin revealed that Mozgov was there to help do the dirty work.
"His numbers don't have to be flashy," Griffin said at halftime of Monday's 105-93 loss to Houston. "We've got three players who are flashy. We need guys to do the dirt work."
At present the Cavs are 19-17 in the Eastern Conference standings. The Cavs are struggling with injuries which include Lebron James being sidelines up to now. James could make his return when the Cavs meet the Lakers on January 15.
As to whether the Cavs can keep themselves afloat for the timebeing remains to be seen. For now, Blatt will have his hands full trying to get old and new faces on the same page.
