How much will Caris LeVert help the Cleveland Cavaliers' pursuit of their first playoff appearance since LeBron James left for the Los Angeles Lakers?
On Sunday, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported the Cavaliers are acquiring LeVert from the Indiana Pacers for the expiring contract of guard Ricky Rubio (who's out for the season after an ACL tear), the Cavaliers' lottery-protected first-round pick and two second-round picks.
Adding LeVert helps solidify a Cleveland guard rotation that's been hit hard by injuries. In addition to Rubio, the Cavaliers also saw starting shooting guard Collin Sexton undergo season-ending knee surgery. Meanwhile, All-Star point guard Darius Garland hasn't played since Jan. 30 because of a lingering back issue. At 27, LeVert could be a long-term option for Cleveland if he fits alongside Garland.
However, the cost was steep for the Cavaliers, who sent Indiana not only their first-round pick this season (lottery-protected) but also the Houston Rockets' second-rounder, which figures to land in the early 30s.
Is LeVert worth that kind of pick value? What does moving him signal about the Pacers' plans going forward? Let's take a look.