The Cavaliers and Anderson Varejao are discussing a contract extension, according to a report from Yahoo Sports and FOX Sports 1 NBA insider Adrian Wojarnowski.
Varejao, 32, was named the starting center last week by Cavs coach David Blatt. The Cavs are also conducting contract extension talks with backup center/forward Tristan Thompson. ESPN reported Monday those talks have stalled.
Meanwhile, Wojarnowski reported sources have indicated discussions involving the Cavs and Varejao "have progressed in recent weeks, but there's no agreement imminent."
Varejao is in his 11th NBA season, all with the Cavs. He played 62 games last year, compiling averages of 8.4 points and 9.7 rebounds. Along with LeBron James, Varejao is the only remaining member of the Cleveland team that advanced to the 2007 NBA Finals. He and James are especially close and the two most-tenured starters in an otherwise young lineup.
Varejao, given the nickname "Wild Thing" for his floppy hair and penchant for over-the-top effort, is one of the most popular players in franchise history.
This is the final year of Varejao's contract with the Cavs. He reportedly will be paid $9.8 million. He could become an unrestricted free agent in July -- able to sign with any team without the Cavs having the right to match. But Varejao would surpass all that with a contract extension.
