NBA Trade Rumors 2014 Update: Andrew Bynum Still On Trading Block; LA Clippers, Miami Heat Express Interest
- Paul John Rivera
- Dec 31, 2013 10:42 AM EST
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The Cleveland Cavaliers lifted the suspension of Andrew Bynum, but the oft-injured center will remain away from the team and will still be on trading block, ESPN reported.
Bynum was suspended on Friday for conduct detrimental to the team that cost him a one-game check of about $110,000. While he remains exiled from team-related activities, reports said that the troubled center will be on paid leave.
The 26-year-old center was suspended by the Cavaliers reportedly due to an incident after the team's practice on Sunday. But that was just one of the reasons why the Cavaliers seemed to have given up on Bynum, as previous reports suggested that the eight-year veteran has wavered on working his way back from knee injuries.
Bynum, who signed a complicated two-year deal with the Cavaliers before the season, is reportedly being shopped by the Cavaliers, who have until Jan. 7 to decide whether or not to guarantee the second half of Bynum's $12.25 million salary this season.
The fact that his contract this year is half-guaranteed and fully non-guaranteed next season makes Bynum an attractive trade chip for teams who are looking to create cap space next season.
The Brooklyn Nets were mentioned in trade talks as a potential trade partner for the Cavaliers, especially after Brook Lopez went down with a foot injury, but NBA analyst David Aldridge said that the Nets have no interest in Bynum even if it is for salary-dumping purposes.
While the interests from cap-space seeking teams are unsurprising, teams who are looking to contend for the title are also reportedly willing to take a gamble on Bynum.
Los Angeles Times reported that the L.A. Clippers will consider acquiring Bynum, but only if the Cavaliers decide to waive him.
The Clippers are currently fourth in Western Conference standings with their 21-11 record, but the team is still looking for frontcourt players to backup DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin.
Aside from the Clippers, the Miami Heat will also be in the mix if the Cavaliers decide to waive the seven-foot center.
Sources said that the Cavaliers could be forced to waive Bynum if there is no good trade offer on the table in order to spare the team from paying Bynum's remaining $6.25 million this season.
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