After weeks of sitting out as the Cleveland Cavaliers attempted to find a trade partner, Chris Fedor of The Plain Deal reports that veteran center Andre Drummond has agreed to a contract buyout with the Cavs and become a free agent.
Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports adds that Drummond will listen to the pitches from the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Charlotte Hornets as he decides on his playing future.
While the Knicks and Hornets will be able to give Drummond the highest-paying contract, the Lakers and Clippers are legitimate Finals contenders that could entice Drummond to sign with them in hopes of securing a title.
It’s worth noting that Drummond, born in New York, is quite familiar with the New England area having been raised in Connecticut. In addition to Drummond is known to be close friends with Lakers star Anthony Davis and to view potential teammate LeBron James as the best player of all-time.
Per an official press release from Cleveland, Cavs head coach J.B. Bickerstaff would compliment Drummond’s professionality and camaraderie despite not playing since Feb. 12, as well as his ability to keep the team afloat with a high level of play.
A four-time rebounding champion and two-time All-Star, Drummond has averaged 17.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists. 1.6 steals and 1.2 blocks per game this season but shot a career-low .474 percent from the field thanks to a subpar shooting percentage of .519 inside of the restricted area and .437 in the paint (non-restricted area), per NBA.com.
