Because apparently a Cleveland side can never really be considered a title contender unless an Australian is on the roster, big veteran Andrew Bogut has reportedly declared his intention to become a Cav.
The Cavaliers are set to secure the services of the defensively-focused Boomer after a surprisingly spirited courting period in which Bogut attracted attention from no less than 4 top-shelf franchises.
Bogut, who began the year as a Dallas Maverick after leaving the Golden State Warriors as part of roster shuffles made to accomodate Kevin Durant‘s contract, was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers as part of a package that saw the Mavs acquire centre/PF Nerlens Noel.
After declaring intentions to not play for Philly, both the Sixers and Bogut agreed to a contract buyout which allowed the 32-year-old to test the free agent market, drawing significant interest from not only Cleveland, but Boston, Houston, and San Antonio as well.
But it’s the Cavs push for a second consecutive NBA title that seems to have ultimately won Bogut over, who will now join LeBron James, Kevin Love, and Kyrie Irving, likely as a much-needed backup centre behind starter Tristan Thompson.
Bogut’s agent David Bauman confirmed that he intends to sign with the Cavaliers once he clears wavers, meaning he could be stepping onto court in a Cavaliers uniform as early as this coming weekend.
The Cavs currently lead the Eastern Conference with a record of 41-17, 4 games clear of their nearest rival Boston. The two teams clash tomorrow morning AEDST.
Source: NBA.com.
Photo: Ronald Cortes/Getty.
