Sources: Lakers sought Waiters, others in potential trade with Cavs
CLEVELAND -- Trade discussions between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers continued Sunday, as the teams attempted to come to an agreement on a deal centered on Cavs center Andrew Bynum and Lakers big man Pau Gasol.
Sources said the Cavs are trying to get a trade finalized by the evening. The proposed deal would send Bynum's contract to the Lakers for Gasol. The Cavs would have to include another player for salary-cap purposes, and that is where the talks get sticky, sources indicated.
According to league sources, along with Bynum, the Lakers asked the Cavs for second-year guard Dion Waiters. The Cavs refused. The Lakers also requested a first-round draft pick, and when the Cavs said no, forward/center Anderson Varejao. That request was also shot down, sources said.
Bynum was suspended for conduct detrimental to the team last week. He has since been excused from team activities. If the Cavs trade or waive Bynum by Tuesday evening he is due just half of his $12.25 million for the season.
Gasol is in the final year of a $19-million contract.
If a trade is consummated, it is believed the Lakers would immediately waive Bynum.
The Cavs view the potential deal as if they are doing the Lakers a favor, sources said, by providing LA with some relief under the salary cap. The Cavs, meanwhile, would be receiving a player in Gasol who would help them make a playoff push and serve as a potential trade chip.
Another team not involved in these particular trade discussions has offered the Cavs a first-round draft pick for Waiters, sources said Sunday.
