3-Team NBA Trade Idea After Cleveland Cavaliers’ Failed LeBron James Pursuit

The Cavaliers covet a big wing, and Watson at 6’8″ is a primary target. Almost 24, the UCLA product shot a career-best 41.1 percent from three-point range last season on 3.6 attempts per game. Averaging 14.6 points per game, he’d fill the slot recently vacated by De’Andre Hunter, who was traded ahead of the February deadline to the Sacramento Kings.

Cleveland also saw vital defender Dean Wade leave for Philadelphia and is parting with Strus in the deal, setting up the starting lineup of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, Harden, and Watson. Depth would require strong support from Sam Merrill, Jaylon Tyson, Mario Hezonja, Nae’Qwan Tomlin, Thomas Bryant, Craig Porter Jr., and Mann, among others.

As for budget, the Cavs have almost $47 million to spend on Watson and Harden for 2026-27. If that’s $23.3 million for Watson on a four-year, $100 million contract, Harden could sign at about $22.5 million for $70.9 million over three years. Both angle for player options before their final seasons, but that’s for the franchise to negotiate.

With 14 players under contract, plus three two-ways, the Cavaliers can sign a minimum free agent, possibly after a contract buyout, in March.

Cleveland would fight to protect its 2030 first, with something like top-5 protection; otherwise, unprotected in 2031. Watson is acquired using the expanded traded player exception generated by Strus, which is also a first-apron hard cap trigger.