Andrew Bogut wants to join Cleveland Cavaliers, nearing buyout with Philadelphia 76ers

Andrew Bogut, the veteran Australian centre, is expected to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers upon securing a release from the Philadelphia 76ers before Wednesday's NBA buyout deadline, per reports. During last week's NBA Trade Deadline day, the Dallas Mavericks traded Bogut to the Sixers as part of the Nerlens Noel trade.

The Sixers will reportedly buy out Bogut's US$11 million (AU$14.2 million) contract, allowing the Aussie to retain playoff eligibility for his next team, presumably the Cavaliers. According to ESPN's Tim MacMahon, "Two sources (close to the Dallas Mavericks) say they expect Andrew Bogut will choose to join the Cavaliers once he receives a buyout from the (Philadelphia) 76ers."

After ESPN's Mark Stein reported Sunday that Bogut's representatives have informed interested suitors that the rim protector will heading to Cleveland, ESPN's Dave McMenamin also reported that "there is mutual interest between Bogut and the Cavs" if the former No. 1 overall pick secures his release from the Sixers.

Andrew Bogut to Cavs: Australian wants to join NBA champs

The Cavaliers, who will try to repeat as NBA champions in June, are also expected to sign former all-star point guard Deron Williams by the Wednesday deadline. Many analysts believe the additions of Williams and Bogut would give Cleveland the needed depth to defeat the Golden State Warriors in a projected NBA Finals rematch. Kyrie Irving, who made the go-ahead basket during Game 7 of last year's finals, praised Cavs general manager David Griffin for improving the roster on a yearly basis.

“I think you guys know. I’ve gone on record saying Griff has one of the hardest jobs, but he’s unbelievable at it, exudes a lot of confidence in not only the guys he brings in but the guys that are here. For us, we trust in the front office, and I think he does a great job. We have a great relationship, very open in terms of communication, and I think he’s doing great," Irving said after Saturday's 117-99 defeat to the Chicago Bulls. Andrew Bogut is expected to come off the bench for the Cleveland Cavaliers.